After the fall: Nvidia faces a leadership search as Jensen Huang resigns

Scandal precedes resignation

Huang, who co-founded Nvidia 33 years ago, resigned as chief executive yesterday after a scandal engulfed him. U.S. authorities believe a woman with whom he had an affair is a Chinese spy.

The company’s board is expected to examine the relationship. The scandal also raised concerns that Huang violated company policy by pursuing relationships with people who reported to him.

Nvidia’s broader role

Nvidia is a central company in the artificial intelligence boom and a key player in the U.S.-China contest for dominance in the sector. It develops and sells chips used in AI.

The company also helps finance data centers, which have become a significant driver of U.S. economic growth. Huang had led Nvidia almost single-handedly, according to the account.

Interim chief and succession

Chief financial officer Colette Kress will serve as interim chief executive while Nvidia’s board searches for a permanent replacement. Potential candidates have been identified, but no selection was announced. President Trump urged Huang to fight for his job and suggested Tim Cook, Apple’s former chief executive, as a successor. Trump wrote on social media, “A Legend replaces a Legend!”