In a strategic move, Alphabet Inc. has appointed Anat Ashkenazi, a seasoned veteran from Eli Lilly and Company, as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Senior Vice President (SVP) of Google and Alphabet. This transition, effective July 31, marks a significant shift in Alphabet’s leadership.
Alphabet confirmed the news to Fortune, highlighting that Ruth Porat, the longtime CFO, will be transitioning to a new role as President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google. Porat will continue her CFO duties until Ashkenazi assumes the role, including overseeing the company’s Q2 earnings.
Anat Ashkenazi’s 23-year career at Eli Lilly saw her rise to the position of CFO in 2021. Before that, she held several key roles including SVP, Controller, and CFO of Lilly Research Laboratories. She also led the corporate strategy team and business transformation office and served as CFO for various global business areas. Eli Lilly announced that Ashkenazi would continue her CFO duties and executive committee membership until July, while an active search for her successor is underway.
Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet and Google, expressed his enthusiasm about Ashkenazi’s appointment, citing her strategic focus on long-term investment and growth. “We have found such a strong CFO with a track record of strategic focus on long-term investment to fuel innovation and growth,” Pichai stated. He looks forward to collaborating with Ashkenazi to drive responsible investments in the company’s next phase of growth, particularly in the AI sector.
Ashkenazi, in her statement, acknowledged Google’s transformative impact over the past 25 years, stating, “Google’s growth and evolution over the last 25 years has been an incredible story, helping billions of people and millions of businesses around the world.” She emphasized the significant opportunities ahead and expressed her honor in joining Sundar and the leadership team.
During her tenure at Eli Lilly, Ashkenazi played a pivotal role in the company’s financial strategies amid soaring sales and demand for weight-loss drugs. Notably, Eli Lilly produces Mounjaro, a Type 2 diabetes drug also known for its weight-loss benefits, and Zepbound, an FDA-approved obesity medication. In Q1, Eli Lilly reported a 26% increase in worldwide revenue, reaching $8.77 billion, driven by these innovative products.
Ashkenazi’s transition to Alphabet is poised to bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight to the tech giant as it navigates the rapidly evolving technological landscape and the burgeoning opportunities in AI.
About Anat Ashkenazi
Anat Ashkenazi is a highly experienced finance executive with over two decades at Eli Lilly and Company, where she served as CFO since 2021.
During her tenure, she held various key roles, including SVP, Controller, and CFO of Lilly Research Laboratories, and led the corporate strategy team and business transformation office.
Known for her strategic acumen and leadership in driving financial growth, Ashkenazi has been instrumental in Eli Lilly’s success, particularly in the booming weight-loss drug market.
As she steps into her new role as CFO and SVP of Alphabet and Google, Ashkenazi brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong track record in fostering innovation and long-term investment.
Also read: From Google to $1.9 Trillion – Unveiling Alphabet’s Success Story
