Page Takes Control of Google

Larry Page, Co-Founder of Google, has taken over the role as Google’s CEO today from Eric Schmidt.

Schmidt, who had announced his resignation from the position in January, has moved into an Executive Chairman role.

This role is not unfamiliar to Page, who had served as Google’s CEO from 1998-2001. His past experience, and a solid earnings report which followed the announcement, is likely the reason why the original announcement by Schmidt did little to affect the market value of Google, which is still in the very capable hands of its founders.

The other half of the Google magic, Sergey Brin, has taken on the role of Co-Founder. While his focus is on new products, he has stated his desire “to work more on personal passions.” So we can expect his role to diminish over time which would be a blow to Google.

In his original announcement in Janauary, Schmidt described Page’s responsibilities in his new role:

“Larry will now lead product development and technology strategy, his greatest strengths, and starting from April 4 he will take charge of our day-to-day operations as Google's Chief Executive Officer. In this new role I know he will merge Google's technology and business vision brilliantly.”

Following the official announcement, Schmidt also tweeted “Day-to-day adult supervision no longer needed!”

Some saw this as an insult to the young founders, especially since there have been instances in the past where their behavior was considered immature.

However, in a conference call following his January announcement, Schmidt showed confidence in the new CEO.

“I believe Larry is read,” Schmidt said. “It’s time for him to have a shot at running this, and I’m sure he’ll do a fantastic job.”