Jensen Huang resigns as Nvidia CEO amid explosive scandal

Reports of separate relationships, including one involving an alleged Chinese spy, put Huang under intense scrutiny

Jensen Huang has resigned as Nvidia chief executive following a series of damaging revelations about his alleged extramarital affairs, including a reported relationship with a woman suspected of having links to Chinese intelligence.

The announcement on Thursday, November 12, brings an end to Huang’s 33-year leadership of the company he co-founded. His departure follows weeks of controversy surrounding his personal life, with reports of multiple relationships attracting scrutiny and raising questions about his judgement.

One of the most serious allegations concerns Alice Huang, a Chinese technology executive whom US authorities reportedly suspect was recruited by China’s Ministry of State Security. According to reporting by The New York Times, she was allegedly tasked with getting close to the Nvidia chief to obtain information about the company’s advanced AI chips.

The reported relationship prompted concerns about whether Huang had been exposed to a foreign intelligence operation. Nvidia’s board subsequently announced an independent investigation into the matter, while the FBI was also reportedly examining the relationship.

However, the controversy did not end there. A separate report by The New York Times revealed that Huang had allegedly been involved with Kimberly Powell, an Nvidia vice president who joined the company in 2008. The revelation added another layer to the growing scandal, particularly given the company’s rules concerning personal relationships that could create workplace conflicts of interest.

Huang also acknowledged being unfaithful to his wife in a message to employees, apologising to his family and colleagues. The admission came as reports about his private life continued to attract attention.

The allegations have not established that confidential company information was compromised or that Huang knowingly participated in espionage.

Following his resignation, Nvidia has appointed CFO Colette Kress as interim CEO while searching for a permanent replacement. The board thanked Huang for his contributions, but his departure marks a dramatic conclusion to a leadership career overshadowed by an increasingly damaging personal scandal.