Billionaire Profile
Senapathy Gopalakrishnan
Global Rank
#1302

Image: World Economic Forum | CC BY-SA 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Senapathy Gopalakrishnan

CEO, Software services
INDIA
Real-Time Net Worth
$3.222B
Estimated based on Software services stock value as of March 6, 2026
+0.44% (24h)
Age
70
Source
Software services
Industry
Technology
Citizenship
INDIA

Biography

Senapathy "Kris" Gopalakrishnan, a prominent figure in the Indian technology sector, is a co-founder of Infosys and the current Chairman of Axilor Ventures. His career, spanning from his early days as a software engineer to leading Infosys as CEO and Managing Director from 2007 to 2011, showcases remarkable achievements. With a current net worth of $4.35 Billion (as of October 9, 2024), Kris is recognized globally as a business and technology thought leader. His contributions extend to funding research in brain sciences, supporting entrepreneurship, and influencing public policy. He is also the Chairman of the Council of the Indian Institute of Science.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Born Senapathy Gopalakrishnan on April 5, 1955, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Kris Gopalakrishnan received a foundational education that fueled his passion for technology. He earned an M.Sc. in Physics in 1977 and an M.Tech. in Computer Science in 1979 from IIT Madras.

Rise to Success

Kris's career began as a software engineer in 1979. In 1981, he co-founded Infosys. He served as the CEO and Managing Director from 2007 to 2011 and later as Vice Chairman until 2014. Under his leadership, Infosys experienced significant growth, establishing itself as a global leader in IT services.

Key Business Strategies

During his tenure at Infosys, Gopalakrishnan focused on expanding the company's global presence and strengthening its innovation strategies. Post-Infosys, he has invested in numerous startups through Axilor Ventures. He promotes research on brain sciences, aging-related disorders, and invests in start-up ecosystems. His family philanthropy is Pratiksha Trust and his investment arm is Pratithi.

Philanthropy

Kris Gopalakrishnan has consistently supported research and entrepreneurship. His philanthropic efforts include contributions to the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and IIT Madras. He established the Gopalakrishnan – Deshpande Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at IIT Madras.

Career Milestones

1979

Software Engineer

Began his career at Patni Computer Systems in Mumbai.

1981

Co-founded Infosys

Co-founded Infosys Technologies with six others.

2007-2011

CEO and Managing Director of Infosys

Led Infosys through a period of significant expansion.

2011-2014

Vice Chairman of Infosys

Served as Vice Chairman, continuing to contribute to the company's strategic direction.

2014

Retired from Executive Roles at Infosys

Transitioned to focus on philanthropy and investments in startups.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Research

Center for Brain Research

$4.08M

Contributed to the establishment of the Centre for Brain Research at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore.

Education

Gopalakrishnan – Deshpande Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

$2.5M

Established the center at IIT Madras to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"I have always believed in fairness, justice, and treating everyone with respect, regardless of their background."

"I am deeply saddened that a law meant to protect marginalized communities has been misused to make false allegations against me."

Leadership Principles

Integrity

Upholding strong ethical standards in all business dealings.

Transparency

Ensuring open and honest communication within the organization.

Excellence

Striving for the highest quality in products, services, and operations.

Stakeholder Welfare

Considering the interests of all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the community.

Controversies & Challenges

2025

SC/ST Atrocities Act Case

Booked under the Prevention of SC/ST Atrocities Act along with 17 others based on a complaint by a former faculty member at IISc.