Microsoft picks Amy Hood as chief financial officer
Hood becomes the first woman to hold the position and one of four in Microsoft's senior leadership ranks.
Microsoft promoted Amy Hood to chief financial officer Wednesday, replacing Peter Klein, who announced plans to leave the software giant last month.
Hood, 41, joined Microsoft in 2002 and worked most recently as the chief financial officer of Microsoft's Business Division, a job she held for a little more than 3 years. There, she handled financial strategy for the $24.1 billion unit and was deeply involved in the acquisitions of both Skype and Yammer. Prior to that job, Hood was chief of staff in Microsoft's Server and Tools group.
"I'm excited to step into this role and look forward to working closely again with our investors and shareholders," Hood said in a statement.
Bloomberg reported Wednesday that Hood was in the running for the job along with the chief financial officer and chief marketing officer of the Windows division, Tami Reller. Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Steve Ballmer cited Hood's role in helping move the Office division toward a software-as-a-service strategy in announcing the move.
"Amy brings the right talents and experiences to the role as we continue to strengthen our focus on devices and services," Ballmer said. "She has been an instrumental leader in the Microsoft Business Division, helping lead the transition to services with Office 365 and delivering strong financial and operational management throughout her time on the business."
Hood will be the first woman to serve as Microsoft's chief financial officer and one of four in the company's senior leadership, along with Reller, Windows Division Vice President Julie Larson-Green and the company's Chief People Officer Lisa Brummel. Hood's promotion is effective immediately.