NVIDIA wants Arm Holdings CEO to replace Jensen Huang
What's the story
NVIDIA's board is said to be considering Arm Holdings CEO Rene Haas as a potential successor to Jensen Huang, who recently stepped down from the position amid allegations of extramarital affairs. The Financial Times reported that Haas, who has led the SoftBank-backed British chipmaker since 2022, is one of the names being considered by NVIDIA's board in its search for new leadership.
Succession
Succession process in early stages
Haas had worked with NVIDIA for nearly seven years over a decade ago.
He is said to have maintained good professional relationships with Huang and other board members.
The succession process is still in its early stages, according to NVIDIA.
The company has said it was "in the process of selecting a search firm" to identify a new CEO and had not "formally engaged" any candidates yet.
Transition
Petition to reinstate Huang
Huang announced his resignation on Thursday after 33 years at the helm of NVIDIA.
The company's Chief Financial Officer, Colette Kress, is currently serving as interim CEO.
This transition comes amid speculation that several employees have started a petition to reinstate Huang, a move supported by SpaceXSI CEO Elon Musk.
Allegations
Allegations of extramarital affairs
Huang's exit came amid reports of his alleged extramarital affairs, including one with Chinese businesswoman Alice Huang.
Some US intelligence officials suspect her of having ties with Chinese intelligence services.
The controversy was further fueled by another alleged relationship with Kimberly Powell, NVIDIA's vice president of healthcare, who reports to Huang.
Legacy
Huang's departure and its impact
Huang, who co-founded NVIDIA in 1993, turned it into a leading supplier of artificial intelligence chips. He became a prominent figure in the global AI industry. His departure has sent shockwaves across an industry he helped bankroll.