Fiorina to Step Down From Cisco Board

Fiorina, who has been on networking company's board since January 2001, chose not to stand for re-election, according to the filing by Cisco.

"It was a personal decision," HP spokeswoman Rebeca Robboy said. "HP and Cisco look forward to the opportunity to develop a new and broader partnership."

Fiorina joined HP in July 1999 and led the company through its contentious merger with Compaq Computer Corp. The $19 billion marriage was finalized in May 2002, but the combined company's results have recently been disappointing.

Cisco will not immediately name a replacement candidate. Its bylaws allow for a board of anywhere from eight to 15 members.

Shares of San Jose-based Cisco closed 28 cents higher, to $21.42, in Thursday trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market. Shares of Palo Alto-based HP gained 61 cents, to $20.97, on the New York Stock Exchange.

Cisco's shareholders will meet on Nov. 11.