Google Cloud Bolsters AI Strategy with Appointment of Karthik Narain as Chief Product and Business Officer

In a strategic move to accelerate its enterprise and AI-driven growth, Google Cloud has appointed Karthik Narain, formerly Chief Technology Officer at Accenture, as its new Chief Product and Business Officer. The announcement, made by Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian on LinkedIn, signals the company's commitment to converting its foundational AI investments into tangible enterprise solutions and clearer commercial outcomes.

Narain, a technology consulting veteran with over 25 years of experience, will spearhead Google Cloud's product and engineering teams across its cloud, developer, data, and applied AI divisions. He will also oversee the go-to-market organization and collaborate closely with Google Public Sector to drive the adoption of AI-powered solutions across enterprises.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai expressed his enthusiasm for Narain's appointment, emphasizing his pivotal role in shaping Google Cloud's next phase of growth. "I'm excited that Karthik Narain is joining Google Cloud as its Chief Product and Business Officer, a key leader on Thomas Kurian's exceptional team," Pichai stated. He further added that Narain will work closely with cloud customers as they leverage AI to transform their businesses, ultimately accelerating Google Cloud's already strong growth. Pichai also highlighted the positive reception of Gemini Enterprise, launched just over a week ago.

Kurian also expressed his confidence in Narain's ability to accelerate customers' journey into the AI era, citing his proven track record with clients and unparalleled depth of experience in developing enterprise technology solutions.

Narain himself conveyed his excitement about joining Google Cloud, stating it was a "fantastic opportunity" to combine Google's world-class foundational technologies and advanced AI innovation with his experience in enterprise systems, business processes, and product strategy to drive digital transformation.

Prior to joining Google Cloud, Narain held the position of Chief Technology Officer at Accenture. He also served as Group Executive – Technology at Accenture, where he led global technology and strategy initiatives. Between 2005 and 2015, Narain was Vice President and Vertical Head for High Tech, Software & Platforms, and Automotive at HCLTech. He holds a Master's degree in Computer Systems and Business from Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli.

The appointment of Narain is viewed as a strategic move by Google Cloud to translate its technical advancements in AI into repeatable, enterprise-ready products and effective go-to-market strategies. For enterprise technology buyers and partners, this signifies clearer product roadmaps, more solution-oriented offerings, and a stronger emphasis on converting AI experiments into tangible production value. The coming year will reveal whether a leader with a consulting background can accelerate this transition without introducing unnecessary complexity.