Kress is not a newcomer to Nvidia’s leadership. She has spent more than a decade overseeing the company’s finances and played a key role during a period of extraordinary business growth.

A Career Spanning Major Technology Companies

Before joining Nvidia, Kress held senior financial positions at some of the world’s biggest technology companies, including Microsoft, Cisco Systems and Texas Instruments.

She spent eight years at Texas Instruments in various finance roles before joining Microsoft in 1997. During her 13-year career there, she became CFO of the company’s Server and Tools division in 2006.

In 2010, she joined Cisco Systems as senior vice president and CFO for Business Technology and Operations Finance. Three years later, she moved to Nvidia, where she took charge of the company’s financial operations.

Educational Background

Kress holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Arizona and an MBA from Southern Methodist University.

Her professional experience in the technology sector spans nearly 25 years, giving her a background in corporate finance, business operations and financial management.

Nvidia’s Growth During Her Tenure

When Kress joined Nvidia in 2013, the company reported annual revenue of $4.13 billion. According to Reuters, Nvidia’s revenue reached $215.9 billion in fiscal year 2026, reflecting the company’s dramatic expansion during the rise of artificial intelligence.

The growth has transformed Nvidia into one of the most influential companies in the global technology industry, with its chips playing a central role in the development of AI systems.

A New Leadership Challenge

Kress has now taken on responsibilities that extend beyond financial management. As interim CEO, she will oversee the company’s broader operations while Nvidia’s board searches for a permanent chief executive.

The company has said that Kress has a deep understanding of its business, customers, operations and financial position. She will also continue serving as CFO until a permanent successor is appointed.

Her appointment comes at a significant moment for Nvidia, as the company faces a leadership transition following reports and allegations surrounding its former chief executive, Jensen Huang.

For Kress, the challenge will be to maintain the company’s business momentum and oversee its operations during a period of uncertainty over its long-term leadership.