Chuck Robbins is the Chairman and CEO of Cisco Systems, a global technology leader. With over 25 years of experience at Cisco, Robbins has played a pivotal role in the company's transformation and strategic shift towards software, services, and innovative technologies. Under his leadership, Cisco has focused on fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, driving growth, and promoting corporate social responsibility.

Who is Chuck Robbins?

Chuck Robbins, born in Grayson, Georgia, is an accomplished technology executive with a background in mathematics and computer science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Before joining Cisco Systems in 1997, Robbins worked as an application developer for North Carolina National Bank and held positions at Wellfleet Communications and Ascend Communications. At Cisco, he has held various leadership roles, including Senior Vice President of the Americas and Senior Vice President of Worldwide Field Operations.

Robbins was named CEO in 2015 and elected Chairman of the Board in 2017, leading Cisco's transformation and strategic shift towards software, services, and innovative technologies. He is known for promoting transparency, trust, and diversity in the workplace, as well as advocating for humanitarian policies and global privacy legislation in the tech industry.

Outside of Cisco, Robbins serves on several boards and organizations, such as the Business Roundtable, BlackRock, Ford Foundation, and the World Economic Forum.

Work History

• Cisco: CEO (July 2015 - Present)
• Cisco: Chair and CEO (December 2017 - Present)
• Cisco: Senior Vice President, Worldwide Field Operations (December 2012 - July 2015)
• Cisco: Senior Vice President, Americas (August 2011 - October 2012)
• Cisco: Senior Vice President, US Enterprise, Commercial & Canada (August 2009 - July 2011)
• Cisco: Senior Vice President, US Commercial (December 2007 - July 2009)
• Cisco: Segment Vice President, US Channels Sales (December 2005 - November 2007)
• Cisco: Vice President, US Channels Sales (December 2002 - November 2005)
• Cisco: Operations Director, US Channels Sales (October 1999 - August 2002)
• Cisco: Regional Manager (November 1998 - October 1999)
• Cisco: Account Manager (December 1997 - November 1998)
• Ascend Communications: Sales (December 1996 - December 1997)
• Wellfleet Communications: Sales (July 1992 - December 1996)
• North Carolina National Bank (NCNB): Application Developer (August 1987 - July 1992)

Education History

Chuck Robbins completed his high school education at Rocky Mount Senior High from 1980 to 1983. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematical Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating in 1987. This strong foundation in mathematics and computer science laid the groundwork for his successful career in the technology industry.

When did Chuck Robbins join Cisco?

Chuck Robbins joined Cisco in 1997 and has since held various leadership positions within the company. He became the CEO of Cisco Systems in July 2015, and as of now, he has been with Cisco for approximately 27 years. Throughout his tenure, Robbins has played a significant role in driving the company's transformation and strategic direction, reinforcing its position as a global technology powerhouse.