Microsoft confirms Yahoo hire
Microsoft confirmed Thursday that it has indeed hired Yahoo search executive Sean Suchter, following speculation this week that he would be joining the software maker after his departure from Yahoo was announced.
"We are very pleased to confirm that Sean Suchter will be joining Microsoft as the GM of our Silicon Valley Search Technology Center, working on Live Search," Microsoft search head Satya Nadella said in a statement. Suchter, who starts work December 22, will report to Harry Shum, corporate vice president of Search Product Development.
The poaching comes as CEO Steve Ballmer reiterated at Microsoft's shareholder meeting Wednesday that it has no interest in buying all of Yahoo, though it remains open to a search partnership.
Microsoft would not comment on a report that another former Yahoo search executive, Qi Lu, is under consideration to head Microsoft's online efforts.
During her years at CNET News, Ina Fried has changed beats several times, changed genders once, and covered both of the Pirates of Silicon Valley. These days, most of her attention is focused on Microsoft. E-mail Ina.
but he is going to MS in WA state; wouldn't the non-compete be valid?