Following the departure of its long-time CEO Jensen Huang, NVIDIA has seen a significant shift in its leadership structure. Harvey Jones, now NVIDIA’s first-ever Chair of the Board, has addressed employees in an internal memo, outlining the company’s transition.
Leadership Transition at NVIDIA
Jensen Huang has stepped down from his roles as President, CEO, and a member of the Board of Directors. In his place, the Board has appointed Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Colette Kress as the interim CEO. This move initiates a search for a permanent successor, considering both internal and external candidates.
Harvey Jones, who brings over 30 years of experience in entrepreneurship, technology management, and venture capital, including his previous role as CEO and Executive Chairman of Synopsys, will now lead the NVIDIA Board. This appointment marks a new chapter for NVIDIA’s governance.
“I am writing to share an important update. Jensen has resigned as CEO and Board Member, and the Board has asked our Chief Financial Officer Colette Kress to serve as interim CEO while it conducts a search for a permanent successor looking at both internal and external candidates. I will serve as the first-ever Chair of the Board.”
Colette Kress Takes the Helm as Interim CEO
The Board’s decision to appoint Colette Kress as interim CEO stems from her extensive experience within NVIDIA. For over 13 years as CFO, Kress has been instrumental in shaping NVIDIA’s growth and capital strategies. Her deep understanding of the company’s business and market landscape has earned the Board’s full confidence.
“As CFO for over 13 years, Colette has been a key architect of NVIDIA’s growth and capital strategy,” Jones stated in the memo. “She possesses a deep understanding of this business and the markets in which we operate. The Board has full confidence in Colette to deliver on our commitments to shareholders, customers, partners, and to each of you.”
Jensen Huang’s Profound Contributions
The internal memo also acknowledged the significant impact of Jensen Huang’s leadership. Under his guidance, NVIDIA has risen to become one of the world’s most influential technology companies. Key achievements highlighted include pioneering accelerated computing, defining the modern GPU, and building the foundational platform for artificial intelligence.
“Jensen’s contributions to NVIDIA are profound. NVIDIA is one of the most consequential technology companies in the world. We pioneered accelerated computing, defined the modern GPU, and built the platform that powered artificial intelligence.”
Looking Forward
Harvey Jones emphasized the Board’s commitment to safeguarding the company’s legacy and future. He expressed confidence in NVIDIA’s continued success, attributing it to its employees, leadership team, technical prowess, and partner ecosystem.
“The strength of this company resides in our employees, leadership team, technical strength and partner ecosystem. I am confident that under Colette’s leadership, with the full support of the Board, we will continue to grow our business, and lead the industry forward,” Jones concluded. “Thank you for your focus, your professionalism, and your commitment to NVIDIA.”
This leadership transition marks a pivotal moment for NVIDIA as it navigates its next phase of growth and innovation under new interim leadership and a reshaped board structure.
