Nikesh Arora, the CEO and Chairperson at Palo Alto Networks, is an Indian-American businessman and investor known for his contributions to technology and finance. After a successful career at Google, he joined SoftBank as its president and COO in 2014, overseeing its global investment strategy.
Arora’s visionary approach to business and strategic investments have made him famous in the tech industry, and his story continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide. Born in Ghaziabad, India, in 1968, Arora graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology(IITBHU), in Varanasi, before pursuing an MBA from Northeastern University in Boston. Let us dive deeper into his life and success stories.
Nikesh Arora Biography
- Nikesh Arora is a well-known business executive, investor, and entrepreneur. He was born in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, in 1968. He attended the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, and received a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. He then earned a master’s degree in Business Administration from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts.
- Arora started his career at Wipro Technologies in 1992, holding various leadership positions in sales, marketing, and product management. In 2000, he joined Deutsche Telekom as the Chief Marketing Officer for its European mobile business. He later served as the CEO of T-Mobile International, a subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom.
- In 2004, Arora joined Google, working for almost a decade in various senior leadership roles. He started as the Vice President of European Operations and later became the President of Global Sales Operations and Business Development. During his tenure, he played a crucial part in expanding Google’s global presence and increasing its revenue from advertising.
- In 2014, Arora left Google to become the President and Chief Operating Officer of SoftBank, a Japanese multinational conglomerate. He also served as the CEO of SoftBank Group International, responsible for leading the company’s global investment strategy. Under his leadership, SoftBank made high-profile investments in companies such as Uber, WeWork, and Alibaba.
- Arora left SoftBank in 2018 to start his investment firm, called the 8VC. The firm invests in companies that use technology to disrupt traditional industries. He has also invested in several other companies, including Stripe, Unity Technologies, and Grab.
- Aside from his business career, Arora is also involved in philanthropy. He has donated millions to various causes, including education, healthcare, and disaster relief efforts.
- In 2020, Arora was appointed as the Chairman and CEO of Palo Alto Networks, a cybersecurity company based in California. He is responsible for leading the company’s growth strategy and expanding its global reach.
- Arora has received several awards and honours throughout his career, including the “Young Global Leader” award by the World Economic Forum in 2007 and the “Global Indian of the Year” award by NDTV in 2014.
- In summary, Nikesh Arora is a successful business executive, investor, and entrepreneur with a proven track record of leading companies to success. Arora is known for his technical expertise and ability to identify and invest in companies with disruptive potential.
- He has worked for several multinational corporations and started his investment firm. He is also a philanthropist who has donated millions of dollars to various causes. With his appointment as the Chairman and CEO of Palo Alto Networks, Arora is poised to continue his success and make a significant impact in cybersecurity.
| Name | Nikesh Arora |
| D.O.B | 9th February 1968 |
| Birth Place | Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Age | 55 years |
| Height | 170 cm |
| Weight | 65-70 Kg |
| Father | Updating Soon |
| Mother | Updating Soon |
| First Wife | Kiran Arora |
| Second Wife | Ayesha Thapar |
| Son | Kiaan |
Nikesh Arora’s Net Worth
Nikesh Arora has had a successful career in the business and investment world, which has allowed him to accumulate significant wealth. As of 27th February 2023, his estimated net worth is at least 274 million.
Much of his wealth comes from his ownership of Palo Alto Networks Inc stock, which he owns over 23,349 units worth over $232 million. Additionally, he has sold PANW stock worth over $38 million in the last 11 years.
Arora’s current position as Chairman and CEO of Palo Alto Networks Inc also provides him with a significant salary. He reportedly makes $2,928,069 per year in this role.
However, it is essential to note that Arora’s net worth may fluctuate based on various factors, including market conditions and investment decisions. His impressive net worth reflects his successful career and expertise in the technology and investment industries.
Nikesh Arora Wife
- Nikesh Arora’s wife, Ayesha Thapar, is a successful businesswoman in Delhi, India. She is the CEO of Indian City Properties Ltd, a real estate company.
- Ayesha is a Wellesley College graduate with an Economics degree and has also been the CEO of a Telecom VOIP company in the US for five years before moving back to India in 2008.
- She is a director of Integrated Realty Private Ltd and The Waterbase Ltd and is passionate about painting and designing jewellery.
- Ayesha comes from a prominent Indian business family, being the great-granddaughter of Karam Chand Thapar, founder of the Thapar Group, and daughter of Vikram Thapar, Managing Director and Chairman of KCT Group of Companies. Nikesh Arora’s first wife’s name is Kiran.
Nikesh Arora Daughter
Nikesh Arora has two children, a daughter from his previous marriage and a son with his wife, Ayesha Thapar. Ayesha gave birth to their son on 2nd June 2015, and they named him Kiaan.
The couple is known to be entirely private about their personal lives, but they have been seen at public events with their children.
Nikesh is a devoted family man who has spoken about balancing work and family life. He believes having a solid support system at home is crucial to success in one’s professional life. Nikesh’s family is vital; he values their support and love.
Nikesh Arora Age
Nikesh Arora was born on 9th February 1968. As of March 2023, he is 55 years old. Nikesh achieved massive success in his young days.
Nikesh Arora Salary
Nikesh Arora has a monthly income of $3 million+ and a yearly income of $40 million+, which would be considered exceptionally high by most standards. Such a salary would put him among the highest-paid CEOs in the world. It’s worth noting that CEO salaries can vary greatly depending on the size and success of the company, as well as other factors such as the industry and location.
It’s essential to remember that executive compensation, including CEO salaries, is subject to ongoing debate and controversy. Some argue that high CEO salaries are justified based on the responsibilities and demands of the job, while others criticize the practice as excessive and contributing to income inequality.
Nikesh Arora’s Net Worth Forbes
According to Forbes, Nikesh Arora’s net worth was $1.2 billion. However, it’s important to note that net worth estimates fluctuate over time and may not always be accurate.
Nikesh Arora has had a successful career in the technology and finance industries, including serving as the CEO of Palo Alto Networks, President and COO of SoftBank, and Chief Business Officer at Google. His wealth has come from executive salaries, stock options, and other investments.
It’s worth noting that Forbes’ net worth estimates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect an individual’s entire financial picture. Additionally, net worth does not necessarily reflect an individual’s impact on society, personal qualities, or overall success and happiness.
Nikesh Arora Forbes
Nikesh Arora has been featured in Forbes’ lists and articles multiple times throughout his career, primarily due to his success in tech and finance. Some of the notable mentions include:
In 2018, Forbes included Nikesh Arora in its list of the world’s most influential people, ranking him at #58. The list recognizes individuals who have significant influence worldwide and includes world leaders, business executives, and other notable figures.
In 2019, Forbes listed Nikesh Arora as one of the highest-paid CEOs in the world, citing his total compensation of $128.6 million during his tenure as CEO of Palo Alto Networks.
In 2020, Forbes included Nikesh Arora in its list of America’s Self-Made Immigrants, recognizing successful immigrants who have made significant contributions to the US economy and society.
Nikesh Arora House
Nikesh lived in Atherton mansion. Former Google and SoftBank executive Nikesh Arora is selling his luxurious Atherton mansion for $18.8 million.
The 1.5-acre property boasts 10,600 square feet of living space, including six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and a host of high-end amenities like a swimming pool, tennis court, and home theatre.
Nikesh Arora’s Wife’s Restaurant
While he has held executive positions in several tech companies, he is not associated with the restaurant industry.
Kiran Arora Nikesh Arora’s First wife
Kiran Arora is the first wife of Nikesh Arora. They have been divorced for a while. They have a daughter together.