SEATTLE (Reuters) – Microsoft Corp named Satya Nadella as its next chief executive officer on Tuesday, ending a longer-than-expected search for a new leader after Steve Ballmer announced his intention to retire in August. Nadella is only the third CEO in Microsofts 39-year history, following co-founder Bill Gates and Ballmer. Microsoft also announced that John Thompson, lead independent director, will succeed Gates as chairman. Gates will assume a new role as technology advisor, the company said in a statement. Shares of the worlds largest software maker edged higher in premarket trading. …