Michael Dell Takes the Reins For Dell 2.0

February 2nd, 2007: Michael Dell has taken back the top job at the company he founded, replacing Kevin Rollins in the CEO hot seat.

Dell founded the company in 1984 with $1,000 in his pocket and the idea to sell computers directly to customers, cutting out the middle man. Dell stepped down from his position as CEO in 2004, putting the company’s direction into the hands of Rollins.

Rollins has resigned from his position as CEO and as a member of the board, leaving Dell to step back into the CEO’s shoes and lead what the company is calling “Dell 2.0”.

“The Board believes that Michael’s vision and leadership are critical to building Dell’s leadership in the technology industry for the long-term,” said Samuel A. Nunn, presiding director of Dell’s Board. “There is no better person in the world to run Dell at this time than the man who created the Direct Model and who has built this company over the last 23 years.”

Dell 2.0 is a plan designed to bolster the company’s support operation and expand its ability to let customers choose different hardware configurations with Intel or AMD processors.

Dell himself is positive about the future, even if there may be a tough battle ahead to beat HP. “Dell has tremendous opportunities ahead of it,” said Dell. “I am enthusiastic about Dell 2.0, which includes our plan to provide the best customer experience, build a strong global services business and ensure our products deliver the best long-term customer value.”

Dell will retain his position as chairman of the board.

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