Louis Gerstner, Credited with Turning Around IBM, Dies Aged 83
Louis Gerstner, the man credited with turning around IBM during a critical period in the company's history, has died aged 83. IBM announced his death on Sunday.
Gerstner led IBM as chair and CEO from 1993 to 2002, overseeing a period marked by strategic struggle against technology rivals Microsoft and Sun Microsystems. Notably, he was the first outsider to run IBM.
During his tenure, Gerstner abandoned the company's plan to split into autonomous 'Baby Blues' business units, opting instead for integrated solutions. Additionally, he shifted IBM’s operating system strategy by dropping OS/2 in an effort to prioritize profitability and better meet customer needs rather than directly challenge Microsoft.
Before joining IBM, Gerstner served as president of American Express and CEO of RJR Nabisco. After his time at IBM, he went on to chair the Carlyle Group.
IBM Chief Executive Arvind Krishna described Gerstner as a direct, intense leader who skillfully balanced short- and long-term aims, demanding delivery alongside client-focused innovation.
