Adobe Inc. Chief Executive Officer Shantanu Narayen has announced that he will step down from his role after leading the company for 18 years. The Indian-origin tech leader informed employees that he will continue as CEO until a successor is identified, after which he will remain involved with the company as chairman of the board.
Following the announcement, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella shared a message praising Narayen’s leadership and contribution to the technology industry.
“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. 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. Grateful for your friendship, mentorship, and for all you’ve done for Adobe and for our industry,” Nadella posted on X (formerly Twitter).
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In a note to employees, Narayen confirmed that he has informed Adobe’s board about his decision to transition out of the CEO role.
“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,” Shantanu Narayen said in a statement.
Who is Shantanu Narayen?
Shantanu Narayen is an Indian-born technology executive who has played a major role in transforming Adobe into one of the world’s leading software companies. Born in Hyderabad, he later moved to the United States to pursue higher education.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering from Osmania University, a master’s degree in computer science from Bowling Green State University and an MBA from the University of California, Berkeley’s Haas School of Business.
Narayen joined Adobe in 1998 as vice president and general manager of the company’s engineering technology group. He rose through the ranks to become president and chief operating officer in 2005 before taking over as CEO in 2007. In 2017, he was also appointed chairman of Adobe’s board.
Congrats Shantanu, on a legendary run at Adobe! Youve built one of the most important software companies in the world, and expanded whats possible for creators, entrepreneurs, and brands everywhere. What has always stood out to me is the empathy youve brought to the creative
— Satya Nadella (@satyanadella) March 12, 2026
Before joining Adobe, he worked in product development roles at Apple and Silicon Graphics and co-founded an early photo-sharing startup called Pictra. According to Adobe’s official website, Narayen also holds five patents.
Net worth of Shantanu Narayen
According to the 2025 Hurun Rich List, Shantanu Narayen’s net worth is estimated at ₹4,670 crore.
His decision to step down after nearly two decades as CEO has triggered significant interest across India, with many searching for more details about the Indian-origin leader who helped shape Adobe’s global success.
