EDS CEO to call it quits

EDS chairman and CEO Les Alberthal has decided to retire after 12 years at the helm. Alberthal, only the second person to head the company, oversaw EDS as its revenues grew from $4 billion to over $15 billion and expanded operations to 45 countries. Alberthal also led the company's efforts to attain full independence from General Motors, which culminated in a June 1996 split-off. He will continue as chairman and CEO until a successor is named, and will participate in the search. Alberthal noted EDS' independence from GM, its strong sales and engineering efforts, and its current restructuring of operations in his decision to step down. "This is a good time for the transition to new leadership...the company is well positioned and in the process of returning to consistent growth," he said.