This is a critical time for the industry and for Microsoft. Make no mistake, we are headed for greater places — as technology evolves and we evolve with and ahead of it. Our job is to ensure that Microsoft thrives in a mobile and cloud-first world.

This is a software-powered world.

In the post-Snowden world, you need to enable others to build their own cloud and have mobility of applications. That’s both because of the physicality of computing–where the speed of light still matters–and because of geopolitics.

The opportunity ahead for Microsoft is vast, but to seize it, we must focus clearly, move faster and continue to transform. A big part of my job is to accelerate our ability to bring innovative products to our customers more quickly.

Be passionate and bold. Always keep learning. You stop doing useful things if you don't learn.

One of the key things in the tech business in particular is that you need to be able to push boundaries.

I think playing cricket taught me more about working in teams and leadership that has stayed with me throughout my career.