Jensen Huang steps down as Nvidia CEO after 33 years; Colette Kress to take interim charge

Jensen Huang, co-founder of Nvidia, has stepped down as chief executive officer (CEO) of the technology giant after 33 years at the helm. The company’s board announced his departure on Thursday (12 November). Colette Kress, Nvidia’s current chief financial officer (CFO), will take over as interim CEO.

Huang, 63, had been at the centre of controversy in recent days over reports of alleged personal relationships and claims linking a Chinese businesswoman to foreign intelligence activities. The reports raised questions about his future at the company. However, Nvidia’s official announcement did not specify the reason for his departure.

According to a report by Prothom Alo, recent media coverage focused on Huang’s alleged personal relationship with Alice Huang, a Chinese businesswoman. US officials reportedly suspect that Alice may be involved in intelligence activities on behalf of China. However, the allegations have not been independently established. Alice is not related to Jensen Huang.

On 8 November, Nvidia’s board said in a statement that it had launched an independent investigation into whether Huang had been targeted by foreign intelligence operations. External lawyers are also involved in the inquiry. The board said it had found no evidence that the company’s confidential information or national security had been compromised.

Meanwhile, The New York Times has reported on a separate alleged relationship between Huang and a senior female executive at Nvidia. Details surrounding the report have not been independently verified.

Under the company’s announcement, Kress will serve as interim CEO while retaining her position as CFO. The board is expected to consider both internal and external candidates for the permanent position.

Huang played a key role in founding Nvidia in 1993. Under his leadership, the company evolved from a maker of graphics chips for video games into one of the leading suppliers of advanced processors powering artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Nvidia’s central role in the AI boom has made it one of the world’s most valuable technology companies.