Twelve years after joining Google as its pioneering West Africa Director, one of most prominent women in African tech Dr. Juliet Ehimuan has left the company.
Ehimuan, one of the most prominent African women in tech and an instrumental leader in Google’s regional growth, announced her departure via LinkedIn, stating her intent to take on a broader role within the regional tech landscape.
“After an incredible 12-year journey, I have made the decision to embark on a new adventure and embrace a broader role within our region’s tech ecosystem.
“Twelve years ago, I embarked on a journey with Google – a journey that became a mission to help shape Africa’s digital landscape. It has been my privilege to be a part of this remarkable endeavour, which has transformed lives across our continent, made technology more accessible, and opened up limitless possibilities,” Ehimuan said.
She unveiled plans to collaborate with corporate executives, global investors, African governments and startup founders to drive growth, excellence and digital transformation within the African tech ecosystem and the broader business landscape.
During her time at the company, Ehimuan championed the inaugural Google for Africa event in 2012. At the event which was held in Lagos, Google CEO, Sundar Pichai announced the company’s commitment to training 10 million Africans in digital skills, 100,000 developers in in-depth web and mobile development skills, and a Google for Startups accelerator for Africa to support tech entrepreneurs on the continent.
Before she was appointed Google’s West Africa Director, she served as the company’s Country Director for Nigeria.
Ehimuan joined Google with a background in strategy and technology. She made contributions to its information and communications technology (ICT) policy and strategy. She also played a pivotal role in developing policies that have facilitated investment and infrastructure growth in the Nigerian tech ecosystem.
While at Google, Ehimuan led transformative digital initiatives, including projects like Get Nigeria Businesses Online and the localization of Google Maps, Streetview, and YouTube.ng. She also facilitated training programs and access projects that enhanced internet accessibility and affordability in Nigeria.