Former Palo Alto Networks CEO brings extensive technology and security experience to Blaize
EL DORADO HILLS, Calif., January 15, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Blaize Holdings, Inc. ("Blaize") (Nasdaq:BZAI), a provider of purpose-built, artificial intelligence ("AI")-enabled edge computing solutions, today announced the appointment of technology executive and investor Lane Bess as chairman of its board of directors.
Bess has over 35 years of experience as a successful operational executive, leading startups and helping to build some of the most iconic internet security companies. He is the former CEO of Palo Alto Networks, leading the company to its IPO. Later he played an instrumental role in leading Zscaler to its IPO. He also has held key positions in major companies such as Trend Micro Internet Security, NCR Corporation and AT&T. His considerable work in the security technology sector has made him a trusted advisor for many enterprise technology CIOs and CISOs.
Lane’s relationship with Blaize began more than three years ago when he became a key Blaize investor based on his conviction in semiconductor AI technology at the edge and his recognition of the significant potential of this emerging market.
"As AI impacts the lives of many people, meaningful applications will be realized through edge technology where decisions and information must be processed instantly," Bess said. "I look forward to working more closely with the Blaize team on its journey to bring the latest in next-generation computing to a range of industries globally."
"No one is more well regarded and qualified in security, company building and technology than Lane Bess," said Dinakar Munagala, CEO of Blaize. "That’s why we’re so excited to have Lane in this new role with Blaize. His unique combination of experience in company building and technology will be a tremendous benefit across our organization."
Bess has extensive global technology experience that includes building businesses in Europe, Japan, other Asia-Pacific regions and other regions internationally. Through his family office Bess Ventures and Advisory, Bess has made early investments in companies such as Arista Networks, Nutanix, Rubrik, FreedomPay and Blaize, among others.
Bess holds a B.A. in managerial economics from Carnegie Mellon University and an MBA from the University of Dayton. He serves as a board trustee at Carnegie Mellon University.
About Blaize
Blaize provides a full-stack programmable processor architecture suite and low-code/no-code software platform that enables AI processing solutions for high-performance computing at the network’s edge and in the data center. Blaize solutions deliver real-time insights and decision-making capabilities at low power consumption, high efficiency, minimal size and low cost. Blaize has raised over $330 million from strategic investors such as DENSO, Mercedes-Benz AG, Magna, and Samsung and financial investors such as Franklin Templeton, Temasek, GGV, Bess Ventures, BurTech LP LLC, Rizvi Traverse, and Ava Investors. Headquartered in El Dorado Hills (Calif.), Blaize has more than 200 employees worldwide with teams in San Jose (Calif.) and Cary (N.C.), and subsidiaries in Hyderabad (India), Leeds and Kings Langley (UK), and Abu Dhabi (UAE).
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