Affair scrutiny brings resignation calls as Nvidia moves to tighten China exports, while board investigates Jensen Huang
Reported relationship with executive
The Wall Street Journal reported that Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang had two extramarital relationships. One was reportedly with Kimberly Powell, the company’s vice president of health care, who reports directly to him.
Sources familiar with the matter said Huang and Powell were seen acting affectionately at a San Jose hotel during Nvidia’s GTC developer conference in March. Huang, 63, and Powell, 48, are both married to other people.
Powell joined Nvidia in 2008 and took charge of its health care unit in 2017. At the March conference, she presented on artificial intelligence in biology, using cartoon images of Huang.
Company rules and investigation
Nvidia’s code of conduct tells employees to avoid circumstances that could create conflicts inside the company, including personal relationships. It also says the company “promptly investigates reports of misconduct,” according to the account.
The board has opened an internal inquiry into the matter. The inquiry is being conducted by the law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.
Congressional scrutiny grows
Republican leaders of three House committees have requested a closed-door briefing from Huang. Their request concerns his interactions with a woman alleged to be a Chinese intelligence asset.
The reports add to pressure on Nvidia and its chief executive. The account reports no board decision to oust Huang, despite describing the matter as a developing crisis.
Key points
- The Wall Street Journal reported two extramarital relationships involving Jensen Huang.
- Kimberly Powell is Nvidia’s vice president of health care and reports directly to Huang.
- Nvidia’s board has commissioned an internal investigation led by Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.
- Republican leaders from three House committees seek a private briefing about Huang’s contacts with a woman alleged to be a Chinese intelligence asset.