Nvidia (NVDA) has entered a new chapter named Colette Kress as its interim CEO following the departure of longtime chief executive Jensen Huang on Nov. 12.
A veteran finance executive who has helped guide NVDA through its AI-driven rise to glory, Kress now takes charge of one of the world’s most influential technology companies.
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1. She Is Nvidia’s Interim CEO as of Nov. 12, 2026
Nvidia’s board named Colette Kress interim chief executive immediately after Jensen Huang resigned. She will lead the company while directors conduct a search for a permanent CEO, considering both internal and external candidates.
2. She Continues to Serve as CFO
Unlike many leadership transitions, Kress is keeping her existing role as executive vice president and chief financial officer while acting as interim CEO. That gives Nvidia continuity in financial strategy, investor communications, and operational oversight.
3. She Has Been Nvidia’s Finance Chief Since 2013
Kress joined Nvidia in September 2013 as CFO. Over more than a decade, she has overseen the company’s finance organization and played a major role in supporting its transformation from a graphics-chip specialist into an AI powerhouse.
4. She Helped Navigate Nvidia’s Historic Growth
During Kress’s tenure, Nvidia experienced extraordinary expansion driven by demand for AI and accelerated computing technologies. The company’s revenue grew from roughly $4.13 billion in fiscal 2014 to about $215.9 billion in fiscal 2026, reflecting one of tech’s most remarkable growth stories.
5. She Brings Nearly 25 Years of Pre-Nvidia Experience
Before arriving at Nvidia, Kress spent nearly 25 years in finance roles at major technology companies. Her background spans semiconductors, enterprise software, and networking, giving her experience across multiple sectors of the tech industry.
6. She Held Senior Roles at Microsoft
A significant part of Kress’s career was spent at Microsoft (MSFT). Among her leadership positions, she served as chief financial officer of the Server and Tools division, where she helped manage financial strategy, reporting, and long-term business planning.
7. Cisco Also Helped Shape Her Leadership Style
Before joining Nvidia, Kress worked at Cisco (CSCO) as senior vice president and CFO of its Business Technology and Operations Finance organization. Her responsibilities included financial planning, reporting, business development and corporate strategy.
8. She Has Strong Academic Credentials
Kress earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Arizona and later completed an MBA at Southern Methodist University. Her academic background laid the foundation for a career focused on corporate finance and technology leadership.
9. She Has Long Been One of Nvidia’s Most Visible Executives
Investors and analysts know Kress as a familiar presence on Nvidia’s earnings calls, where she regularly discusses financial results and business performance alongside senior leadership. Her visibility has made her one of the company’s most recognized executives outside the CEO’s office.
10. Her Biggest Test Arrives Immediately
Kress assumes leadership at a pivotal moment for Nvidia and the wider AI industry. The company has emphasized business continuity, but markets will closely watch how she guides strategy, maintains customer confidence, and manages growth during the CEO search.
On the date of publication, Wajeeh Khan did not directly have a position in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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