Google has announced significant leadership changes aimed at enhancing its focus on innovation and technology. In a memo to employees, CEO Sundar Pichai revealed that Prabhakar Raghavan, the long-serving head of search, will transition to the role of Chief Technologist. In his new position, Raghavan will concentrate on fostering a culture of technological excellence and providing strategic technical direction, collaborating closely with Pichai and other executives.

"Prabhakar has decided it’s time to make a big leap in his own career," Pichai said. "After 12 years leading teams across Google, he’ll return to his computer science roots and take on the role of Chief Technologist. In this role, he’ll partner closely with me and Google leads to provide technical direction and leadership and grow our culture of tech excellence."

To succeed Raghavan, Google has appointed Nick Fox, a seasoned leader from the company's search and ads division. Fox has played a pivotal role in developing key products, including Google Fi and RCS messaging, and will now oversee Google's Search, Ads, Geo, and Commerce operations.

In addition to these leadership changes, Google is reorganizing some of its research and development teams. The Gemini app team, led by Sissie Hsaio, will now integrate into Google DeepMind, the company’s AI research subsidiary. Meanwhile, the Google Assistant team will become part of Google's Platforms and Devices division.

Pichai noted the recent progress in AI across Google’s products, highlighting the successful launch of NotebookLM with Audio Overviews, enhancements in Search and Lens, and a revamped Google Shopping experience. He also shared a milestone in AI applications in healthcare, with 600,000 screenings conducted to help doctors detect diabetic retinopathy, expanding access to more people in India and Thailand.

To keep pace with the rapid advancements in AI technology, Google is simplifying its organizational structure. Pichai explained the strategic adjustments being made to prepare for the "Gemini era." The Gemini app team will collaborate more closely with Google DeepMind to enhance feedback loops and expedite the deployment of new models. Additionally, the Assistant teams focused on home experiences will join Platforms and Devices, improving user experience.

Prabhakar Raghavan’s leadership at Google has been noteworthy, encompassing roles in Research, Workspace, Ads, and Knowledge & Information (K&I). He played a crucial role in launching AI features like Smart Reply and Smart Compose in Gmail and achieving significant user growth. Under his leadership, K&I has experienced substantial innovation, including AI Overviews in Search and new modalities like Circle to Search and "shop what you see" in Lens.

Pichai expressed gratitude for Raghavan's contributions, stating, "I’m so grateful to Prabhakar for the strong foundation and leadership bench he’s built across K&I."

Nick Fox is stepping into his new role as Senior Vice President of K&I, bringing his extensive experience in shaping Google’s AI product roadmap and collaboration with Raghavan’s leadership team. Throughout his career, Fox has shown exemplary leadership across various K&I sectors, including Product and Design, Shopping, Travel, and Payments. His innovative approaches have significantly impacted Google Ads and consumer products.

As these leadership transitions unfold, Google is poised to continue its legacy of innovation and excellence in the tech industry.