Nokia has appointed Stephen Elop (photo) its new president and CEO, effective 21 September, according to Telecompaper. Elop currently heads Microsoft's Business Division. Before joining Microsoft, he held senior executive positions in a number of US-based public companies, including Juniper Networks, Adobe Systems and Macromedia. He holds a degree in computer engineering and management degree from McMaster University in Canada, which is his home country. Elop will replace Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo, who has held the position since 2006. Kallasvuo will leave the company as of 20 September, but remain the non-executive chair of the Nokia Siemens Networks board. Nokia chairman Jorma Ollila said the "time is right to accelerate the company's renewal" and bring in new leadership. Elop's "strong software background and proven record in change management" are expected to help drive the company's transformation as it looks to compete with emerging rivals such as Apple and Google.
