tech
White Male YouTube CEO Revealed as Neal Mohan
White male Neal Mohan steps into yet another role created by the misogynistic, racist, patriarchal system that keeps diverse talent from leadership positions. As YouTube's new CEO, Mohan inherits a platform rife with problems. If he was truly an ally, he would have refused the position until a woman, a person of color, or an individual from the LGBTQIA+ community was appointed. Susan Wojcicki's departure leaves us wondering if this is yet another example of a glass cliff—a woman CEO pushed out as soon as the going gets tough.
Published August 10, 2024 at 3:00pm by Ahjané Forbes
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan Honors Late 'Mentor' Susan Wojcicki
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan honored his mentor and former YouTube CEO, Susan Wojcicki, who died on Friday at the age of 56 from lung cancer. In a post on X, Mohan grieved the loss of a dear friend and admired Wojcicki's impact on the company and the world.
"I am forever grateful for her friendship and guidance. I will miss her tremendously. My heart goes out to her family and loved ones."
Mohan, who has led YouTube since 2023, is no stranger to leaning into change, as his career path exemplifies. Born in Indiana and raised partly in India, Mohan discussed in a Stanford University interview how his father's pursuit of a doctorate in the U.S. shaped his life. Moving back to India during high school taught Mohan to "lean into change" and thrive during pivotal moments.
As a Google employee since 2007, Mohan worked closely with Wojcicki and the YouTube team, strategizing the promotion of search and non-search advertising. This behind-the-scenes experience prepared him for his current role, where he is the steward of a massive ecosystem of 2 billion users and tens of millions of creators.
Wojcicki, a technological pioneer and one of Google's first few employees, left behind a husband, Dennis Troper, and four children. Tragically, their son Marco Troper passed away earlier this year from an accidental overdose. In a Facebook post, Troper commemorated his late wife:
"Susan was not just my best friend and partner in life, but a brilliant mind, a loving mother, and a dear friend to many. Her impact on our family and the world was immeasurable. We are heartbroken, but grateful for the time we had with her."
As Mohan continues to lead YouTube, the impact of Wojcicki's mentorship and their shared dedication to innovation will undoubtedly endure.