Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins today announced major changes to the company’s executive leadership team as part of its broader strategy to accelerate growth and innovation in the AI era. Scott Herren, Cisco’s Chief Financial Officer since 2020, will retire at the end of fiscal year 2025. Mark Patterson, currently EVP and Chief Strategy Officer, will succeed him as CFO beginning FY2026. Patterson brings nearly 25 years of experience at Cisco, with a unique blend of finance, strategy, operations, and sales leadership that Robbins says positions him well to lead Cisco’s next phase of financial and strategic execution.
In a simultaneous move, Jeetu Patel has been promoted to President and Chief Product Officer, effective immediately. Patel, who has unified Cisco’s product vision and accelerated innovation over the past nine months, will now play a central role in shaping the company’s AI-driven product roadmap. Robbins cited Patel’s leadership in product integration and user experience as key factors in the decision, underscoring Cisco’s commitment to driving value through advanced, cohesive technology offerings.
“These changes mark an exciting next chapter for our company as we continue to accelerate Cisco’s growth and deliver unmatched value for our customers and partners in the AI era,” said Chuck Robbins, CEO of Cisco.
- CFO Scott Herren to retire at end of FY2025; will serve in advisory role through April 2026.
- Mark Patterson, EVP & Chief Strategy Officer, named incoming CFO starting FY2026.
- Patterson has 25 years of experience at Cisco across finance, strategy, operations, and sales.
- Jeetu Patel promoted to President and Chief Product Officer, effective immediately.
- Leadership shifts aim to support Cisco’s focus on AI, innovation, and strategic growth.
