Google to Replace Motorola CEO

Former Google senior vice president Dennis Woodside will replace Jha, Bloomberg reports, although Google has not officially announced the decision.

By promoting from within its own ranks, Google sends a message it intends to bring about greater unity between the two companies after the acquisition is complete and keep its own alliances strong.

Google and Motorola Mobility have disparate corporate cultures, which could set them up to clash once the acquisition is final. Differences in everything from dress code to management styles could keep the two companies from working together effectively.

By moving Woodside in as CEO, Google will put someone who shares its corporate values and culture in charge of its newest acquisition, potentially ensuring a smoother transition.

Jha's replacement may also put Google's group of Android hardware manufacturers and other partners at ease. By replacing Jha with one of its own, Google signifies that a major change in philosophy or leadership is unlikely as a result of its Motorola purchase.

Woodside oversaw the Google-Motorola deal and led the transition as it progressed over the past several months. His understanding of the issues surrounding the two companies and their pending deal make him a logical choice to head up the Motorola Mobility division once it is officially part of Google.

The decision is still speculation, however. Woodside emerged as a favorite from a short list that included Motorola senior vice president Christy Wyatt and chief strategy officer John Butcher, an anonymous source told Bloomberg.

The U.S. Department of Justice and the European Union signed off on Google's purchase of Motorola earlier this month. Google still awaits approval from China before it can finalize the deal.