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Cisco Welcomes Girish Rishi to Its Board of Directors

On October 9, 2026, Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) announced the appointment of Girish Rishi as a member of its board of directors, marking a significant addition to the tech giant's leadership team. Rishi, who is currently the Chairman and CEO of Cognite, brings with him an impressive three-decade-long career in technology leadership, excelling notably in data and AI, product development, and supply chain management.

A Visionary Leader in Technology

Rishi's vast experience spans across various high-profile positions in the tech industry. Prior to his role at Cognite, he served as CEO of Blue Yonder, where he specialized in supply chain management software and consulting services. His career also includes prestigious roles at Tyco International, Zebra Technologies, Motorola Solutions, and Symbol Technologies, where he contributed significantly to both government and commercial sectors.

In a statement regarding his new position, Rishi expressed, "Every organization is racing to turn its data into a competitive advantage with AI, and that depends on secure, resilient infrastructure, which is exactly what Cisco delivers. I’m honored to join Cisco's board and look forward to working with Chuck and the team as the company continues to help customers unlock the full potential of AI."

Enhancing Cisco's AI Strategy

Rishi's appointment comes at a pivotal time for Cisco, as the company strives to provide essential infrastructure for organizations venturing into the AI era. Chuck Robbins, Chair and CEO of Cisco, welcomed Rishi by stating, "His expertise will be invaluable as Cisco provides organizations around the world with the critical infrastructure required to lead in the AI era." This strategic addition to the board aims to enhance Cisco's commitment to innovation and the digital transformation of its clients.

With Rishi’s background in industrial AI at Cognite, where he aids energy and industrial organizations in transforming data into actionable insights, he aligns perfectly with Cisco's mission to empower businesses through advanced technology solutions. His insights are anticipated to play a crucial role in shaping Cisco’s initiatives and roadmap in the growing AI landscape.

Rishi's Diverse Influence

Beyond his role at Cisco, Rishi actively participates in various boards and organizations. He has been a director at Insight Enterprises since 2017 and has also served on the board of Digi International. Rishi's membership in the Council on Foreign Relations and his position with the Arizona Commerce Authority further demonstrate his extensive involvement in the industry, advocacy, and policy-making.

Educational Background

Rishi's academic credentials complement his extensive professional experience. He holds a master’s degree in public policy from Johns Hopkins University, an MBA from the University of Hartford, and an undergraduate degree from the University of Mumbai. This blend of education and experience positions him as a strong asset to Cisco's board.

About Cisco

Cisco has been a pioneer in the technology industry for over 40 years, dedicated to revolutionizing how organizations connect and innovate in the AI era. With its leading AI-powered solutions and services, Cisco aims to enable its customers, partners, and communities to unlock innovation, boost productivity, and enhance digital resilience. With an unwavering commitment to creating a more connected and inclusive future, Cisco consistently strives to maintain its leadership in the tech world.

In summary, Girish Rishi's appointment to Cisco's board not only enhances its leadership capacity but also aligns with the company's vision for advancing technology infrastructure as it navigates through the complexities and opportunities presented by AI. Rishi's extensive background promises to drive forward-thinking strategies, benefitting both the company and its global customer base as they embrace the future of technology.