Executive Officers

Dec. 7, 2023 – John W. Thompson left the Microsoft Board of Directors after deciding not to seek re-election.

John W. Thompson is partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners since 2018.

Thompson brings over 40 years of experience in the technology industry. Previously, he served as chief executive officer and director of Virtual Instruments. Before this, he was the chairman and chief executive officer of Symantec for 10 years, during which time he helped transform the company into a leader in security, storage and systems management solutions. Thompson also held several leadership positions during his 28 years at IBM in the areas of sales, marketing and software development.

Thompson is an active investor and advisor in early-stage technology companies in the Silicon Valley.

Thompson holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Florida A&M University, and a master’s degree in management science from MIT’s Sloan School of Management. In 2008, he received an honorary doctorate degree from the University of Notre Dame, Mendoza College of Business, and in 2014 he received an honorary doctorate degree from Florida A&M University.

Thompson joined the Microsoft board as an independent director in February 2012. During his tenure on the Microsoft board, he has served as lead independent director and board chair.

Learn more about Microsoft’s board and committees >