Market Data 
- Satya Nadella became only the third CEO of Microsoft almost a decade ago.
- The ex-engineer reformed corporate culture and has driven growth with innovation and partnerships.
- Microsoft is worth more than $3 trillion but is still behind Apple’s valuation.
When Satya Nadella took over as Microsoft CEO on February 4, 2014, the company was struggling.
Windows 8 had been a disaster. Microsoft employees were constantly battling behind the scenes for supremacy. And all the while, consumers and developers alike were losing faith in the company cofounded by Bill Gates.
How times have changed.
In January, as Nadella neared a decade in charge, Microsoft overtook Apple to become the world’s most valuable public company worth more than $3 trillion, although Apple since regained its crown.
The resurgence has been credited to his savvy embrace of partnerships, dedication to innovation, and considered leadership style.
Here’s how Nadella, 57, worked his way up the ranks of Microsoft and executed this startling turnaround.
This article has been updated since its original publication in 2016.
