About a month ago, we reported that Nokia had begun conversations to sell its Digital Health division - which was formed through a previous acquisition of Withings - back to Éric Carreel, one of the co-founders of the original company.
Now, the company is confirming the sale through a press release, saying that it"s part of the company"s plan to become "a business-to-business and licensing company.". However, as a result of the sale, the company is also announcing changes to its leadership.
Gregory Lee - who left Samsung last year to become president of Nokia Technologies - is now stepping down from his role and leaving the company. Rajeev Suri, CEO of the company, thanked Lee for his contributions to the company"s strategy:
Gregory came to Nokia, made a clear-eyed assessment of our consumer business and incubation activities, and took the bold decision to refocus Nokia Technologies on licensing (...). As part of that effort, he assessed strategic options for Digital Health, which led to the sale of that business. Given that, we have agreed that his work at Nokia is done. He leaves the company with my great appreciation and thanks.
Lee also commented on the departure, saying:
I am proud of the fact that I leave Nokia Technologies as a stronger and more focused organization, strategically aligned to make a meaningful impact on Nokia"s business performance. I am thankful for my time at Nokia and wish the team continued success.
The role of president of Nokia Technologies will now be taken on by Maria Varsellona, who is also the company"s Chief Legal Officer - a position she will retain alongside her new responsibilities.
Lee"s position on the board of HMD Global - the company"s exclusive licensee for Nokia-branded smartphones - will be taken on by Chief Marketing Officer Barry French.
Source: Nokia (1), (2) via Techradar