Stephen Kelly, the outgoing chief executive of Micro Focus International PLC (MCRO.LN) who resigned Wednesday for personal reasons, will be looking for new corporate opportunities in the coming months once his successor is in place.

Speaking to Dow Jones following his shock resignation, Kelly reiterated that the decision was a personal one, and the company's operational performance remains in line with comments made in August that trading is broadly in line with management expectations.

"I am focused on providing a lot of energy for the next venture," Kelly said in an interview, adding that he would take a couple of months to reflect on what opportunities are out there, what makes sense given his experience, "and of course who might want me."

He also didn't rule out venturing away from his software past, having led Chordiant Software Inc (CHRD) and held senior roles at Oracle Corp. (ORCL), depending on what is available when he's ready to undertake a new role.

Kelly also said he hopes to continue to be involved in the Micro Focus Technology Manifesto, which is calling on the British government to implement plans to promote IT and create jobs in the sector.

Micro Focus shares, which have fallen nearly 20% in the year to date, dropped further on the news of Kelly's departure. At 1133 GMT, they were down 12.3%, or 47 pence at 338p.

 
  Company Web site: www.microfocus.com

-By Kathy Sandler, Dow Jones Newswires; 44-207-842-9293; kathy.sandler@dowjones.com