Sundar Pichai, born July 12, 1972, is an Indian-American business administrator best known for his leadership at Google and its parent company, Alphabet Inc. He joined Google in 2004, identifying key products such as Chrome, Google Drive, and driving the development of Android. Pichai rose to become CEO of Google in August 2015. Under his leadership, Google boosted its product offerings, made inroads into artificial intelligence, and solidified its position as a tech plant. In December 2019, Pichai joined Alphabet Inc. He assumed the position of CEO of Microsoft Inc., replacing co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin. His tenure has been noted for efforts to diversify revenue streams beyond advertising, with a focus on areas such as cloud computing and hardware. Pichai’s leadership has received global attention, with him sharing his views on shaping the future of technology at events such as the World Economic Forum.
Having joined Google in June 2004, my role is broad, covering a wide range of areas from shaping the company’s overarching product and technology strategies to directing its day-to-day operations. I have been deeply involved in many important aspects since joining Google, two major contributions of which are – my involvement in the development of Google Toolbar and Google Chrome. These products have become staples used by more than 1 billion people worldwide. These products not only reflect Google’s commitment to innovation but also reflect our mission to make information universally accessible and useful.
In 2014, I took over leadership of product, engineering, and research efforts across all of Google’s products and platforms. This elevated role provides me with the opportunity to guide the development and growth of a diverse range of offerings, including search, maps, communications, Google Play, commerce, and advertising. Additionally, I have overseen the development and deployment of a suite optimized for consumers, businesses, and educational institutions, collectively known as Google Apps and Cloud Platform. Additionally, my field is home to two fundamental computing platforms – Android and Chrome – that have not only revolutionized the way we interact with technology, but have also enabled the spread of digital innovation on a global scale.
During my tenure at Google, I have had the privilege of working closely with company co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin. Our collaborative efforts have shaped Google’s path and strengthened its leadership position in the tech industry. I assumed the role as Chief Executive Officer in 2015, building on the foundation laid by predecessors and attempting to chart a path for further growth and innovation. This transition was a significant moment in Google’s history, marked by a dedication to making a difference through technology.
My involvement with Alphabet, Google’s parent company, has reaffirmed my support in advancing the company’s strategic objectives and long-term vision. Joining the Board of Directors in 2017 provided me with the opportunity to contribute my views and expertise at the highest levels of high-level corporate governance. This role allows me to not only provide strategic guidance, but ensure alignment between Google’s ongoing initiatives and Alphabet’s broader strategic imperatives.
Before being employed at Google, I accumulated valuable experience in both the technology and consulting sectors. My work at Applied Materials gave me first-hand exposure to semiconductor manufacturing processes, while the experience at McKinsey & Company refined my strategic intelligence and problem-solving skills. These formative experiences laid the foundation for my future success, and provided a deep exposure to the technical and business aspects of the industry.
Education has played a vital role in shaping my professional journey, providing me with a strong foundation on which I can build my career. I earned my undergraduate degree from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, where I was awarded the Institute Silver Medal for Academic Excellence. Next, I studied at Stanford University, which gave me the technology expertise I needed to succeed in the fast-paced era of technology. Additionally, I pursued an MBA at the Wharton School, where I was honored as a Siebel Scholar and Palmer Scholar and interviewed as a leader in my field.
My journey as Google CEO has been defined by a tireless pursuit of innovation, an unwavering dedication to excellence, and an unwavering dedication to advancing Google’s mission. As I lead Google into the future, I am deeply mindful of the context within which I have been presented with opportunities and inspired by the practical potential to drive impactful change for people around the world.