Naveen Zutshi is setting the course for Databricks’ future as its Chief Information Officer (CIO). Known for his ability to harness AI and analytics to streamline operations and boost innovation, Zutshi has made significant strides in aligning technology with business objectives. At Databricks, he focuses on scaling enterprise systems, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving strategic AI initiatives that empower businesses worldwide. His reputation as a forward-thinking leader stems from his ability to anticipate industry shifts and adapt technology to meet evolving needs.
Born and raised in India, Zutshi earned his bachelor’s degree in engineering from the National Institute of Technology in Rourkela before completing an MBA at Santa Clara University. His extensive career spans pivotal roles across leading organizations. At Palo Alto Networks, he managed corporate-wide analytics, AI applications, and global operations, solidifying his expertise in enterprise technology. Earlier roles at Gap, where he oversaw global infrastructure and security, and at Cisco, where he contributed to IT management, equipped him with a robust foundation in engineering and strategic leadership. At Databricks, Zutshi’s role goes beyond traditional IT management, as he plays a central part in shaping the company’s AI-focused strategies.
Zutshi recalls arriving in the U.S. during the early internet boom, a formative experience that shaped his view of technology as a transformative, not just an incremental, force. At Databricks, he drives AI adoption not as a trend, but as a key lever for rethinking how enterprises operate, pushing teams to think bigger, faster, and more boldly. His leadership is grounded in the belief that technology should drive real business change, not just support existing systems.