John Chambers, whose name has been synonymous with IP Networking, having led the biggest IP networking provider, Cisco for 15 years, is stepping down from his role as the CEO. During his tenure as the CEO, Chambers led Cisco as the company expanded its portfolio from networking to cover the entire suite of communications and software services, including the Cloud and the Internet-of-Everything (IoE).
Like many other leading technology companies - Microsoft, Oracel, Intel and IBM - which saw their long serving founders & CEOs passing the baton to the second generation leaders, John Chambers who joined Cisco back in 1991 as the head of sales will be leaving his position to Chuck Robbins, who will take over as the CEO from the 26th of July. John Chambers will assume the role of Executive Chairman, and will continue to serve as the Chairman of Cisco’s Board.
Chuck Robbins, 49 years, joined Cisco in 1997 and has since moved quickly through the company’s ranks. He most recently served as Cisco’s senior vice president of worldwide operations, leading the company’s global sales and partner team that drives $47B in business for the company. According to Cisco, Robbins has helped lead and execute many of the company’s investments and strategy shifts, including building the industry’s most powerful partner program, now worth more than $40B in revenue to the company each year.
John Chambers, Chairman and CEO, Cisco
This is the perfect time for Chuck Robbins to become Cisco's next Chief Executive Officer. We've selected a very strong leader at a time when Cisco is in a very strong position. Chuck knows every Cisco segment, technology area, and geography, and will move the company forward with the speed required to capitalize on the opportunities in front of us.
Chuck Robbins
I joined Cisco 17 years ago because I wanted to be a part of a company where I believed the possibilities were limitless. Today, I am even more convinced that Cisco is that company. Over the past 20 years, John Chambers’ vision and leadership have built Cisco into one of the most important companies in the world; a company fiercely committed to delivering for its customers, shareholders, partners, and employees.
