Reports: Microsoft shaves CEO shortlist

Former Nokia chief Stephen Elop is still in the frame along with Ford Motor chief Alan Mulally, according to news sources

Microsoft has narrowed down its list of candidates gunning for the chief executive spot, according to a Reuters report today.

The report claims the software giant has shrunk its shortlist to around five people, including former Nokia chief executive Stephen Elop and Ford Motor chief Alan Mulally. There are also three internal candidates vying for the title, Reuters claims, including former Skype chief Tony Bates and Satya Nadella, the vendor's cloud and enterprise head.

It is believed the vendor started with around 40 names, and the process is set to take many months.

Existing chief executive Steve Ballmer (pictured) announced in August that he would be stepping down in the coming year, after being in the role since 2000. Under his leadership the firm claims it tripled revenue and doubled profit. Ballmer said in a missive to staff that the best was 'yet to come' for Microsoft.

In a statement to Reuters, a Ford representative said it "does not engage in speculation".