Tue Jan 28 04:42:29 UTC 2025: ## Zoho Founder Sridhar Vembu Steps Down as CEO, Focuses on R&D
**CHENNAI, INDIA –** In a surprising move, Sridhar Vembu, founder of software giant Zoho Corp, has stepped down as CEO, handing the reins to co-founder Shailesh Kumar Davey. Vembu announced the transition on X (formerly Twitter), stating he will now serve as Chief Scientist, dedicating his time to research and development and his personal rural development initiatives.
The restructuring, Vembu explained, is a strategic response to the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving technological landscape, particularly advancements in artificial intelligence. He emphasized the critical importance of R&D to Zoho’s future success.
Davey assumes the CEO role, while other co-founders will lead key divisions: Tony Thomas will oversee US operations, Rajesh Ganesan will head ManageEngine, and Mani Vembu will lead Zoho.com. This decentralized leadership structure aims to bolster Zoho’s ability to compete in a dynamic market.
Vembu’s move reflects his longstanding commitment to sustainable development and rural upliftment. He expressed enthusiasm for returning to hands-on technical work and tackling the R&D challenges facing the company. The transition marks a significant shift for Zoho, signaling a renewed focus on innovation and technological advancement in the age of AI.
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