Nvidia’s new chairman Harvey Jones is a ‘charming elder statesman’ set to lead the search for the next CEO. But did he enable the current crisis?

Harvey Jones, the newly appointed Chair of the Board at Nvidia, aims to lead the search for the company's next CEO following the sudden departure of founder and CEO Jensen Huang. Jones, 73, has been with Nvidia since its inception in 1993 and has been known for his calm and confident demeanor, traits that could provide stability during this transitional period.

Jones is seen as a "charming elder statesman" by his colleagues, with a long history of success in the technology industry. He founded two companies, served as CEO of another, and has been managing partner of investment firm Square Wave Ventures. Despite his wealth, Forbes notes that his Nvidia compensation is the primary source of his fortune.

While Jones comes across as polished and composed, those who know him say he possesses a sharp, insightful mind underneath his smooth exterior. His experience as a manager at Tensilica, where he played a crucial role in keeping the team on track, showcases his strategic thinking and leadership skills.

However, Jones' long tenure and role on the board have raised questions about his oversight of the company's handling of Huang's personal affairs, which violate the company's code of conduct. As the board investigates these misconduct allegations, Jones' leadership in the search for a new CEO will be closely scrutinized, as the board must address its own role in creating the problem.