Nutanix President, IGEL Chair, tech investor and longtime SVLG board member will help guide the organization’s next phase of impact

SAN JOSÉ, Calif., Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG) today announced that Tarkan Maner, President of Nutanix and Chair of IGEL, has been named Chair of the SVLG Board of Directors.

Tarkan’s vote was officially noticed on July 23 and he was unanimously selected by SVLG’s Executive Board on August 11 after a collaborative months-long process. His selection was ratified by the full Board on September 3.

Tarkan is a successful and dynamic technology leader, experienced senior executive, entrepreneur and investor, and longtime partner to SVLG, supporting the organization’s work as both a member company CEO, Board Member, and investor for nearly two decades. Tarkan brings a focused, technology leadership perspective with deep roots in Silicon Valley’s innovation ecosystem. Over more than three decades, he has helped build, scale, and lead technology companies at every stage of growth in every segment – from emerging companies and startups to some of the world’s leading AI technology enterprises.

“Silicon Valley has always been defined by what comes next, and SVLG has an essential role to play in bringing business leaders together as a positive force to help define that future,” said Tarkan Maner, SVLG Board Chair. “SVLG’s ambition is clear: to help shape the outcomes that will determine California’s competitiveness for generations to come. I look forward to building on our strong momentum and working with Ahmad, my fellow board members and SVLG’s member companies to ensure this region remains the best place in the world to innovate, grow a company and create opportunity for all.”

“I’ve known Tarkan for many years and have also had the good fortune to work closely with SVLG throughout my time in public service. California leads the world in technology and innovation, and our job now is to make sure that leadership translates into greater opportunity for all Californians and communities across our state. Tarkan understands both the extraordinary potential of this moment and the work required to deliver on it. I look forward to seeing what Ahmad and the SVLG team accomplish to keep California innovating, growing, and creating opportunity for all Californians,” said California Governor Gavin Newsom.

“San José sits at the heart of Silicon Valley, and we want the companies and entrepreneurs shaping our future to continue building and scaling innovation here. With decades of experience building and leading technology companies, Tarkan understands the dynamic of what companies need to invest, innovate, and grow, and the importance of translating that growth into jobs, opportunity, and tangible benefits for our community,” said San José Mayor Matt Mahan. “As SVLG approaches its momentous 50th anniversary next year, the organization has an important role to play in bringing business, government, and community leaders together to ensure that the next era of innovation strengthens our economy and expands opportunity across San José and our region. I look forward to working together to create jobs, attract investment, and keep our region at the forefront of innovation, that benefits all our residents.”

Before joining Nutanix and IGEL, Tarkan most recently served as Chairman and CEO of Nexenta Systems, guiding the company through its acquisition by DataDirect Networks, and as President and CEO of Wyse Technology, which was acquired by Dell. He has also held senior leadership roles at Dell, IBM, and Sterling Software, and currently serves on the boards of several technology companies and nonprofit organizations. As an independent investor and advisor, he also brings a strong understanding of strategic partnerships and the transformative power of AI.

This breadth of business experience gives Tarkan a valuable perspective on what it takes for innovators at all stages to succeed and scale. His unique expertise and leadership come at an exciting moment for SVLG as it continues strengthening its role as the leading voice for innovation, business competitiveness, and economic growth in California. With the world’s leading technology companies and employers already among its members, SVLG is well positioned to build on that strength by bringing in the next generation of AI leaders, technology portfolio companies, and investors helping drive the future.

“Tarkan understands the promise of Silicon Valley and the work required to sustain its innovation leadership,” said Ahmad Thomas, CEO of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group. “He is truly the embodiment of what Silicon Valley makes possible. As we approach SVLG’s 50th anniversary next year, we have an extraordinary opportunity to build on our legacy while continuing to evolve for the future. I’m thrilled to partner with Tarkan, our incredible Board, and our world-class member companies, to translate this momentum into even greater impact for Silicon Valley, our broader region, and California.”

Tarkan will also serve as Chair of the Board of the newly launched California Innovation Foundation, which is governed by the SVLG Executive Board of Directors. Strategically aligned with SVLG, the new entity extends the organization’s impact through 501(c)(3) funded research, education, and innovation-centered workforce initiatives.

Noted Silicon Valley Leaders from the Public and Private Sectors Welcomed SVLG’s New Board Chair

Congressman Sam Liccardo (CA-16): “Tarkan’s experience as an entrepreneur and technology leader makes him an exceptional choice to Chair the Silicon Valley Leadership Group’s Board of Directors, but nobody can compete with his inspiring energy, intellect, and passion. As SVLG approaches its 50th anniversary next year, we need its strong leadership in this critical moment for our region and nation. I look forward to working together to advance innovation, expand opportunity, and drive the economic growth and competitiveness that will define our region’s next chapter.”

Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17): “Our nation’s leadership in global innovation depends on our ability to harness the extraordinary promise of technology to strengthen our economy and create greater opportunities for everyone. Tarkan embodies forward-looking leadership, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a strong commitment to bring business and government together around a shared purpose. I very much look forward to working with him and SVLG to ensure innovation continues to be a force for broad-based economic opportunity.”

CA Senator Josh Becker: “We have an extraordinary opportunity to harness the next generation of technology to strengthen our economy, address some of our region’s biggest challenges, and improve people’s lives. Tarkan’s experience as such a successful leader in the business world, coupled with his commitment to collaboration and positive civic impact, will be tremendous assets to SVLG. I look forward to working together to turn Silicon Valley innovation into meaningful progress and greater opportunity for all Californians.”

CA Assemblymember Marc Berman: “I’ve known Tarkan for over a dozen years, back when I worked for an education non-profit and he served on our board. I’ve seen first hand Tarkan’s passion, his infectious energy, and his deep commitment to everyone who lives in the Bay Area. Tarkan believes in the importance of strong collaboration between the public and private sectors to tackle the terribly complex challenges facing our region and create better opportunities for all Californians, and I look forward to working with him and SVLG to do just that.”

Cynthia Teniente-Matson, Ed.D., President, San José State University: “Silicon Valley’s greatest strengths are its people, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit. As an experienced entrepreneur and technology leader, Tarkan understands the critical connection between education, innovation, and the workforce of the future. As SJSU sits in the epicenter of the future, I look forward to his leadership and to strengthening the critical workforce partnerships and educational collaborations that will prepare the next generation of talent to thrive and lead in our rapidly changing global economy.”

UC Santa Cruz Chancellor Cynthia Larive: “The partnership between higher education and Silicon Valley’s innovation economy creates tremendous opportunities for our students, our workforce, and our broader region. Tarkan’s tech industry expertise brings a deep understanding of how new ideas translate into companies and high-growth industries that can have meaningful real-world impact, particularly for our recent graduates. As a fellow SVLG Board Member, I look forward to working alongside him to deepen those connections and expand workforce opportunities for the next generation of innovators and leaders.”

Peter Y. Chung, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Summit Partners: “Across our portfolio companies, we see how rapidly AI, technology, and new business models are changing the competitive landscape. Tarkan brings a combination of deep operating experience, entrepreneurial perspective, and an understanding of what companies here need to invest, grow, and compete at scale. I strongly believe his leadership will be an asset to SVLG as the organization advances its modernization plans and brings together the business community around the policies, infrastructure, talent, and innovation ecosystem central to keeping Silicon Valley and California competitive in the global economy.”

Tim Guleri, Managing Partner, Sierra Ventures: “Silicon Valley’s global leadership in innovation cannot be taken for granted, particularly as AI reshapes our economy and creates an extraordinary new wave of opportunity. With decades of experience building and leading technology companies at every stage, Tarkan understands what companies need to invest, innovate, scale, and compete. His leadership will be an important asset for SVLG and their work to ensure Silicon Valley leads the AI-powered economy, accelerates the innovation and infrastructure that make that leadership possible, and remains the best place in the world to build and grow the companies defining the future.”

Erel Margalit, Founder and Executive Chairman, JVP: “I’ve known Tarkan Maner for many years and I think he is one of the true international leaders, bringing technology and innovation as an engine for collaboration between different companies, countries and ecosystems. I also have the highest respect for Tarkan in his willingness to be available to give advice and support to many founders and entrepreneurs who are trying to build their companies in a big and significant way. I myself often seek his advice, and look forward to collaborating with him as we build great companies together. The opportunity ahead for SVLG and the California Innovation Foundation is extraordinary, as Silicon Valley’s influence becomes even more global and technology reshapes how our companies, countries, and ecosystems connect.”

Jonathan Meeks, Managing Director, TA Associates: “From an investor’s perspective, the next decade will be defined by companies that can translate AI, technology, and innovation into durable growth, productivity, and market leadership. Tarkan understands both sides of that equation: how to build and lead businesses, and how to create the conditions that allow innovation-driven companies to succeed. As SVLG continues to refine its focus, his perspective will be especially valuable in connecting the priorities of the region’s employers, investors, and entrepreneurs with the broader work required to strengthen Silicon Valley’s long-term economic leadership.”

Luke Proskine, Makena Capital Management: “AI is accelerating change across every sector, raising the stakes for companies, investors, and regions competing for growth. Tarkan brings the business perspective and judgment to help translate that disruption into real opportunity. The combination of SVLG and its new California Innovation Foundation creates a powerful platform for this moment, with disciplined focus and the ability to turn insight into action for California’s innovation economy. I’m truly excited for Tarkan and the SVLG team, and proud to support their important work ahead.”

Alberto Yépez, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Forgepoint Capital: “We are entering a defining era for technology, driven by AI, cybersecurity, and an extraordinary pace of innovation. Tarkan brings a global perspective and understands what it takes to identify breakthrough ideas, build category-defining companies, and scale them into lasting businesses. He is exceptionally well-positioned to bring the voice of founders, investors, and technology leaders to SVLG—and help ensure California remains the world’s leading ecosystem for secure, transformative innovation.”

About Silicon Valley Leadership Group

The Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG) is the leading business association representing the innovation economy and its ecosystem. Founded by David Packard of Hewlett-Packard, SVLG has worked for nearly five decades to address issues that affect the region’s economic dynamism and quality of life. Today, SVLG is focused on accelerating the next era of Silicon Valley leadership, activated by our three new Centers of Expertise (COE): Technology & Innovation, Business Competitiveness and Civic Impact. SVLG members collectively provide nearly one of every three private sector jobs in Silicon Valley and contribute  to the worldwide economy. For more information, visit svlg.org.

press@svlg.org 

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SOURCE Silicon Valley Leadership Group