Matthew Massengill, 54, a former chairman, president and chief executive officer of the company and a director since 2000, has been appointed to succeed Pardun as chairman. Len Lauer, 58, chairman and chief executive officer of Memjet and a Western Digital director since 2010, was named lead independent director of the WDC board. The changes will become effective at the company's next annual meeting of shareholders in November 2015.

Pardun joined the Western Digital board in 1993 when the company's revenues stood at $938 million. He served two terms as chairman for a total of 10 years and as lead independent director for the six years between his terms as chairman.

"Western Digital shareholders have been well served by Tom Pardun's stewardship for more than two decades," said Steve Milligan, president, chief executive officer and director. "His guidance and governance during many noteworthy stages of the company's history have been invaluable. On behalf of fellow directors, employees and shareholders, we thank Tom for his distinguished service.

"It is a pleasure to welcome Matt Massengill back to the chairman's role," said Milligan. "Matt's experience and knowledge will be critical in his leadership role of our board as the company transforms itself in the evolving storage industry."