Google Cloud appoints Karthik Narain as Chief Product and Business Officer

Narain’s appointment marks a significant step for Google Cloud as it continues to expand its AI and enterprise offerings globally, positioning the company to further accelerate innovation and customer adoption in the rapidly evolving cloud market

Google Cloud has named Karthik Narain as its new Chief Product and Business Officer, a strategic move aimed at strengthening the company’s foothold in artificial intelligence and enterprise technology. The announcement was made by Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian via LinkedIn, highlighting Narain’s role in leading product and engineering teams across cloud, developer, data, and Applied AI, as well as the go-to-market organisation and collaborations with Google Public Sector.

“Karthik’s proven track record with clients, along with his depth of experience in developing enterprise technology solutions, will accelerate our customers’ journey into the AI era,” Kurian stated in the post, welcoming him to the team.

Narain’s vision for Google Cloud

Responding to the announcement, Narain expressed excitement about his new role. “After more than 25 years in the tech consulting industry, I am thrilled to join Google Cloud as its first Chief Product & Business Officer,” he said. “This role provides an incredible opportunity to combine my expertise in engineering, product strategy, and enterprise systems with Google’s cutting-edge AI technologies to drive transformative digital solutions for customers and partners.”

Narain emphasized his focus on leveraging Google’s foundational technologies and AI innovation to unlock significant value and accelerate digital transformation for enterprises globally.

Leadership backing from Google

Google CEO Sundar Pichai also extended his congratulations, noting Narain’s importance in shaping Google Cloud’s growth trajectory. “Karthik will partner closely with our Cloud customers as they transform their businesses with AI and help accelerate the strong growth we are already seeing,” Pichai wrote on LinkedIn, referencing the recent launch of Gemini Enterprise.

Professional background

Prior to joining Google, Narain served as Chief Technology Officer at Accenture and held multiple leadership roles, including Group Executive – Technology at Accenture and Vice President and Vertical Head for High Tech, Software & Platforms, and Automotive at HCLTech between 2005 and 2015.

He holds a Master’s degree in Computer Systems and Business from Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, and brings extensive experience in enterprise technology, AI-driven solutions, and strategic business leadership to his new role.

Narain’s appointment marks a significant step for Google Cloud as it continues to expand its AI and enterprise offerings globally, positioning the company to further accelerate innovation and customer adoption in the rapidly evolving cloud market.