Indian American technology executive Girish Rishi has joined Cisco’s board of directors, bringing three decades of leadership experience across artificial intelligence, data platforms, software, hardware and supply-chain technology.

The San Jose, California-based networking company announced the appointment on Oct. 9, effective immediately. Cisco said Rishi’s experience developing technology businesses and helping large organizations use data will support the company as it builds infrastructure for the AI era.

Rishi currently serves as chairman and chief executive officer of Cognite, an industrial AI company that helps energy and manufacturing organizations turn complex operational data into practical insights. He is also a senior adviser to Blackstone.

Before joining Cognite, Rishi was CEO of Blue Yonder, a supply-chain management software and consulting company. He led the company as it expanded its cloud-based portfolio and applied machine learning to inventory, logistics and demand planning.

His earlier career included executive positions at Tyco International, Zebra Technologies, Motorola Solutions and Symbol Technologies. Those roles covered product development, commercial operations and services for government and business customers.

Rishi already has significant corporate governance experience. He has served on the board of Insight Enterprises since 2017 and previously served as a director of Digi International. He is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and an executive committee member of the Arizona Commerce Authority.

Raised in India, Rishi earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Mumbai. He later moved to the United States, earning an MBA from the University of Hartford and a master’s degree in public policy from Johns Hopkins University.

Cisco Chair and CEO Chuck Robbins said Rishi’s knowledge of data and AI would be valuable as the company helps customers build secure and resilient digital infrastructure. Rishi said organizations seeking an advantage from AI need the type of dependable infrastructure Cisco provides.

His appointment places an Indian American technology leader on the governing board of one of the United States’ most influential networking and cybersecurity companies.

Key Takeaways About Girish Rishi

• He has joined Cisco’s board of directors.
• He is chairman and CEO of Cognite.
• He previously led supply-chain software company Blue Yonder.
• His technology career spans more than three decades.
• He serves on the Arizona Commerce Authority’s executive committee.