Sriram Krishnan is an Indian-American entrepreneur. venture capitalistand technologist, widely recognized for his influential roles at some of Silicon Valley’s biggest tech companies. Born in Chennai, India in 1984, Krishnan has built a remarkable career spanning leadership positions at major firms such as Microsoft, Facebook, Twitter and Snap before moving into venture capital and policy advisory roles. His expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies have made him a key figure shaping the future of technology and the digital economy.
Early life and education
Krishnan’s technological journey began in his youth. Raised in a middle-class Tamil Brahmin family in Chennai, he developed an early passion for computers. Although his family did not have internet access, Krishnan convinced his father to buy him a computer and he spent his nights learning coding through books. This self-driven pursuit led him to a career in information technology, and he went on to earn a Bachelor of Technology in Information Technology from SRM Engineering College, Anna University, between 2001 and 2005.
Careers at major tech giants
Krishnan’s career in the tech industry began in 2007 when he joined Microsoft as a program manager for Visual Studio. He quickly built a reputation for his ability to lead product teams and drive user growth. Later, at Facebook, he played a pivotal role in creating the Facebook Audience Network, a direct competitor to Google’s advertising technologies.
He also had important roles at Twitter, where he led the user experience and product teams, spearheading key innovations such as the redesigned homepage and events feature. His work at Snap further cemented his reputation as a leader in product management, shaping the future of social media platforms.
Transition to Venture Capital
In 2021, Krishnan joined Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), as a general partner, one of Silicon Valley’s leading venture capital firms. At a16z, he focused on emerging technologies, particularly AI and cryptocurrency, and was integral in expanding the firm’s operations internationally, including its first office in London. His influence grew as he delved into the intersection of tech and finance, particularly in Web3 and AI, areas he believed would redefine industries for decades to come.
The role of AI in policy and public service
In December 2024, Krishnan made headlines with his appointment as Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence under President-elect Donald Trump. As part of his new role, Krishnan will work with David Sacks, former PayPal COO, to help shape AI policy in the United States, balancing innovation with regulation to maintain America’s global leadership in AI. The move marks a significant shift in Krishnan’s career from tech operator to policy influencer, and his expertise will be crucial as the US navigates the complexities of AI’s role in geopolitics and economic development.
Public recognition and personal life
Beyond their professional achievements, Krishnan and his wife, Aarti Ramamurthy, are prominent figures in the tech world and beyond. The couple co-hosts the popular podcast The Aarti and Shriram Show, where they discuss everything from entrepreneurship to tech trends. The show has earned them a following among Silicon Valley insiders and tech enthusiasts alike. They met in college in 2003 and got married in 2010.
Shaping the future of technology and AI policy
Sriram Krishnan’s career is a testament to innovation and adaptability in the tech world. From his early days coding in Chennai to his current role shaping global AI policy, Krishnan has positioned himself at the forefront of technological developments. His contributions, both in the private sector and through recent government appointments, will continue to influence the trajectory of AI and technology policy for years to come.
Early life and education
Krishnan’s technological journey began in his youth. Raised in a middle-class Tamil Brahmin family in Chennai, he developed an early passion for computers. Although his family did not have internet access, Krishnan convinced his father to buy him a computer and he spent his nights learning coding through books. This self-driven pursuit led him to a career in information technology, and he went on to earn a Bachelor of Technology in Information Technology from SRM Engineering College, Anna University, between 2001 and 2005.
Careers at major tech giants
Krishnan’s career in the tech industry began in 2007 when he joined Microsoft as a program manager for Visual Studio. He quickly built a reputation for his ability to lead product teams and drive user growth. Later, at Facebook, he played a pivotal role in creating the Facebook Audience Network, a direct competitor to Google’s advertising technologies.
He also had important roles at Twitter, where he led the user experience and product teams, spearheading key innovations such as the redesigned homepage and events feature. His work at Snap further cemented his reputation as a leader in product management, shaping the future of social media platforms.
Transition to Venture Capital
In 2021, Krishnan joined Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), as a general partner, one of Silicon Valley’s leading venture capital firms. At a16z, he focused on emerging technologies, particularly AI and cryptocurrency, and was integral in expanding the firm’s operations internationally, including its first office in London. His influence grew as he delved into the intersection of tech and finance, particularly in Web3 and AI, areas he believed would redefine industries for decades to come.
The role of AI in policy and public service
In December 2024, Krishnan made headlines with his appointment as Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence under President-elect Donald Trump. As part of his new role, Krishnan will work with David Sacks, former PayPal COO, to help shape AI policy in the United States, balancing innovation with regulation to maintain America’s global leadership in AI. The move marks a significant shift in Krishnan’s career from tech operator to policy influencer, and his expertise will be crucial as the US navigates the complexities of AI’s role in geopolitics and economic development.
Public recognition and personal life
Beyond their professional achievements, Krishnan and his wife, Aarti Ramamurthy, are prominent figures in the tech world and beyond. The couple co-hosts the popular podcast The Aarti and Shriram Show, where they discuss everything from entrepreneurship to tech trends. The show has earned them a following among Silicon Valley insiders and tech enthusiasts alike. They met in college in 2003 and got married in 2010.
Shaping the future of technology and AI policy
Sriram Krishnan’s career is a testament to innovation and adaptability in the tech world. From his early days coding in Chennai to his current role shaping global AI policy, Krishnan has positioned himself at the forefront of technological developments. His contributions, both in the private sector and through recent government appointments, will continue to influence the trajectory of AI and technology policy for years to come.