Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen to step down after 18 years

Shantanu Narayen has decided to step down as the CEO of Adobe after 18 years in the role, marking the end of one of the longest tenures by an Indian-origin leader at a global technology firm.

Narayen will hold the position until his successor is appointed, to ensure a smooth transition, Adobe said in a statement on Thursday. He will continue as the chairman of the board.

Adobe said the board has started the process of identifying the next CEO and will consider both internal and external candidates. “Leading Adobe has been the privilege of a lifetime,” Narayen said.