Google gets new CEO
( 2001-08-07 10:16 ) (7 )

Google Inc on Tuesday named Eric Schmidt, 46, as chief executive officer, succeeding Larry Page, 28, the firm's founding CEO.

Page said that Schmidt, with 20 years experience in software development, management, and marketing, "is exactly the right leader for Google."

"His extensive technology background and vision for the potential of the Internet complement the efforts that Google is making in defining a leadership position in Internet search and navigation," he said.

Page becomes president for products and Google co-founder Sergey Brin heads technology development.

Schmidt served as chairman and CEO of Novell Inc. since 1997, where he led the company's strategic planning, management, and technology development. He recently left his post as Novell's CEO, but remains Novell's chairman of the board.

Prior to his appointment at Novell, Schmidt was chief technology officer and corporate executive officer at Sun Microsystems Inc.