Susan Wojcicki, the influential tech leader and former YouTube CEO who was instrumental in Google’s rise, has passed away at the age of 56 after a two-year battle with lung cancer. Her husband, Dennis Troper, shared the news on Facebook, noting Wojcicki’s profound impact on both her family and the global tech industry.
Wojcicki, a key figure in Silicon Valley, played a pivotal role in transforming Google from a startup in her garage into a global technology powerhouse. Joining Google as its 16th employee and first marketing manager in 1999, she was integral to the company’s early success. Her vision and leadership helped shape Google into the tech giant it is today.
In 2006, Wojcicki transitioned to YouTube, which Google acquired that same year. She led YouTube for nearly a decade, overseeing its growth into the dominant video platform it is now. Last year, Wojcicki stepped down from her role at YouTube to focus on her health, family, and personal interests.
Dennis Troper, in his tribute, highlighted Wojcicki’s dual roles as a devoted wife and mother, and a trailblazer in tech. “My beloved wife of 26 years and mother to our five children left us today,” he wrote. “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.”
Google’s current CEO, Sundar Pichai, expressed his condolences on social media, describing Wojcicki as “an incredible person, leader and friend who had a tremendous impact on the world.” Pichai emphasized that Wojcicki’s influence on Google and its employees is unforgettable, and her loss will be deeply felt.
Wojcicki’s legacy is marked by her significant contributions to the tech industry and her dedication to fostering innovation and growth within Google and YouTube. Her passing is a profound loss to both her family and the broader tech community.
