Technology
Adobe names Anil Chakravarthy as CEO, succeeding Shantanu Narayen
The leadership change takes effect December 1 as the software company navigates ongoing investor concerns over artificial intelligence disruption.
The short version
- Anil Chakravarthy will become Adobe's president and CEO on December 1, taking over from longtime leader Shantanu Narayen.
- Narayen, who led the firm for 18 years, will move into the role of executive chair to assist with the handover.
- The executive transition occurs following consecutive years of stock declines tied to market anxiety over AI's impact on software vendors.
Key facts
- Adobe appointed Anil Chakravarthy as president and CEO effective December 1, and he will also join the company's board of directors.[CNBC]
- Shantanu Narayen is stepping down after 18 years leading Adobe and will transition to executive chair during the leadership change.[CNBC]
- Chakravarthy previously held the role of president of Adobe's customer experience orchestration and worldwide field operations.[CNBC]
- Adobe's shares dropped 25% in 2024, 21% in 2025, and fell 18% in 2026 leading up to the announcement amid broader investor worries regarding AI disruption.[CNBC]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.