Akamai Technologies Welcomes New Board Members: A Strategic Move for Cloud and Cybersecurity Leadership

Janaki Akella joins Akamai with an impressive background in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI). Her previous roles include executive leadership positions at tech giant Google and consulting powerhouse McKinsey & Company, alongside an early career at HP. At Google, Akella was instrumental in steering digital transformation initiatives within the Cloud business, a role that has positioned her as a pivotal figure in the tech industry.

Currently, Akella also serves on the boards of Southern Company, Sallie Mae Corporation, and Fractal Analytics, a global provider of AI solutions. Her board experience includes overseeing critical infrastructure cybersecurity, technology-driven business transformations, and long-term strategic governance. She has been recognized for her impact in the industry, receiving accolades like the Distinguished Alumni award from the College of Engineering in Guindy, India.

Bas Burger, the CEO of BT International, has extensive experience in managing complex global organizations and executing successful go-to-market strategies. His career has encompassed strategic partnerships with major technology and infrastructure players, addressing digital transformation challenges for multinational organizations. Burger’s focus on innovation includes developing secure, AI-ready, multi-cloud international networking solutions. He is also active in the World Economic Forum and serves on the Committee for Economic Development.

Tom Leighton, CEO of Akamai, expressed enthusiasm about the new board members, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Janaki Akella and Bas Burger to our Board of Directors. Janaki's extensive experience in digital transformation and her leadership in leveraging cutting-edge technologies like AI will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our cloud computing and cybersecurity offerings. Bas' experience in international business, particularly in driving global sales, channels, and go-to-market partnerships, will provide important insights as we continue through our transformation and pursue future growth opportunities."

Dan Hesse, Akamai's Chairman of the Board, reiterated the importance of these appointments, emphasizing that they reflect Akamai's commitment to enhancing its cloud computing capabilities while solidifying its leadership in cybersecurity. "Their deep expertise, as well as fresh perspective, will be critical in helping Akamai sustain fast growth in security and cloud computing and capitalize on the opportunities created by AI," Hesse noted.

Both Akella and Burger have expressed their enthusiasm about their new roles within Akamai. Akella remarked, "I am excited to join Akamai's Board of Directors. I am particularly eager to bring my 'voice of the customer' perspective and support Akamai's continued successful transformation to the cybersecurity and cloud computing company that powers and protects business online."

Burger added, "I am honored to join the Board of Akamai, a company that has been at the forefront of delivering superior digital experiences. I look forward to contributing my international business and go-to-market experience to help the company further its commitment to innovation across both cybersecurity and cloud computing."

The appointments of Janaki Akella and Bas Burger to Akamai's Board of Directors mark a strategic move aimed at bolstering the company's position in the dynamic fields of cloud computing and cybersecurity. With their combined expertise, Akamai is poised to further enhance its offerings and navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in this rapidly changing digital landscape. As the company continues to innovate and transform, the insights and leadership of these new board members will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future.