Susan Wojcicki, a trailblazing tech executive who played a crucial role in shaping Google and YouTube, has passed away at the age of 56, as confirmed by her husband.
Wojcicki was instrumental in the founding of Google and served as YouTube’s CEO for nine years before stepping down to focus on her personal commitments. She was highly regarded as one of the most respected female leaders in the predominantly male tech industry.
Her partnership with Google co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin began in 1998 when she rented her garage to them for $1,700 a month. Wojcicki officially joined Google in 1999, assuming various roles as the company expanded its online advertising ventures through acquisitions like YouTube in 2006 and DoubleClick in 2008. She served as Google’s senior vice president of advertising and commerce before becoming the CEO of YouTube in 2014 until 2023.
Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai expressed devastation over her loss and praised her impact on the company and the tech world at large, stating, “Her loss is devastating for all of us who know and love her… and felt the impact of the incredible things she created at Google, YouTube, and beyond.”
Former Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg also paid tribute to Wojcicki, acknowledging her mentorship and influence in her own tech career.
On a personal note, Wojcicki’s husband, Dennis Troper, shared the tragic news of her passing due to lung cancer after a two-year battle. He described her as not only a brilliant mind and a loving mother but also a dear friend to many.
Further details about her passing were not immediately disclosed. Tragically, Wojcicki and Troper had previously experienced the loss of their 19-year-old son, Marco Troper, earlier this year.
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