Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella sends ‘congrats note’ to school mate Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen; says: Grateful for your … – The Times of India
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has praised his schoolmate and fellow tech leader Adobe’s Shantanu Narayen’s leadership. Nadella, who is Narayen’s schoolmate and a fellow tech leader, shared a congratulatory message after Narayen announced that he will step down as Adobe CEO. For those unaware, Satya Nadella and Shantanu Narayen both attended the prestigious Hyderabad Public School (HPS), Begumpet in India. Sharing a post on X (formerly Twitter), Nadella called Narayen’s time at the software giant a “legendary run” and highlighted the company’s growth during his leadership. “Congrats Shantanu, on a legendary run at Adobe! You’ve built one of the most important software companies in the world, and expanded what’s possible for creators, entrepreneurs, and brands everywhere,” Nadella wrote in the post.Satya Nadella also said that Shantanu Narayen played a key role in shaping Adobe’s position in the global software industry and helping creators and businesses adopt digital tools.“What has always stood out to me is the empathy you’ve brought to the creative process and the example you’ve set as a leader,” Nadella wrote. He also thanked Narayen for his guidance and friendship over the years.“Grateful for your friendship, mentorship, and for all you’ve done for Adobe and for our industry,” Nadella concluded the post.
Shantanu Narayen’s departure after long tenure at Adobe
Earlier today, Shantanu Narayen announced his exit from Adobe. During his tenure, Adobe strengthened its position in creative software through products such as Photoshop, Illustrator and Adobe Creative Cloud. His leadership also coincided with the company’s growth in cloud-based services for creators, businesses and marketers.Adobe’s Board of Directors has appointed Frank Calderoni, Lead Independent Director of Adobe, as Chair to the special committee to direct the process that will consider both internal and external candidates. In an email sent to Adobe staff, Narayen wrote: “I want to share with all of you that I have informed the Board of my decision to transition from my role as CEO of Adobe after over 18 years in the job (and the earnings call that I am about to conduct will be my 100th at the greatest company on the planet). Over the coming months, I will be working with Frank Calderoni, our lead Director, and the Board of Directors to identify my successor and to ensure a smooth transition. I will stay on as Chair of the Board to support the next CEO just as John and Chuck did when I took on this role.”
