BusinessWeek Logo
Microsoft

Microsoft

Craig J. Mundie, 59, Chief Research and Strategy Officer since 2006

Biggest accomplishment in this job: Picking up tasks that had been handled by Microsoft (MSFT) founder William Gates, Mundie is now directing the company's investments in software. His aim is to take advantage of increases in computing power, which will result in programs that seem more humanlike. He also has built a number of new businesses for Microsoft, such as the Health Solutions Group and Education Products Group and startups in robotics, energy, and mobile computing.

Previous experience: Named chief technology officer of advanced strategies and policy in 2003, Mundie focused on emerging technologies and emerging markets including Chile, China, India, Russia, and Thailand. Mundie joined Microsoft in 1992 to create and run its consumer platforms division. He also started Microsoft's digital TV efforts, acquiring and managing WebTV Networks. Mundie, who has a master's degree in information theory and computer science from Georgia Institute of Technology, cofounded Alliant Computer Systems in 1982 and later became its CEO.

Innovation philosophy: "Innovation is always about making significant, long-term investments, being willing to take risks, and persevering until ideas—big or small—gain mass adoption."