In a significant leadership shift within the global technology landscape, Kiran Mani has stepped down as CEO – Digital at JioStar and is set to join OpenAI as Managing Director for Asia Pacific. The move comes at a time when the region is witnessing rapid growth in artificial intelligence adoption and digital transformation.

According to a report by The Economic Times, Mani will take on this newly created role in June. He is expected to report to OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer, Jason Kwon, and will relocate from India to Singapore as part of his new assignment.

Mani’s transition marks a notable shift from India’s fast-growing digital entertainment ecosystem to the global AI stage. At JioStar, he played a key role in strengthening the company’s digital strategy and expanding its presence across platforms. His leadership contributed to scaling digital offerings in a highly competitive and evolving market.

His appointment at OpenAI underscores the company’s increasing focus on Asia Pacific, a region that is rapidly emerging as a hub for AI innovation, enterprise adoption, and policy development. With markets like India, Southeast Asia, and Australia accelerating investments in AI-driven solutions, the role is expected to be pivotal in shaping OpenAI’s regional strategy, partnerships, and expansion roadmap.

Industry observers view this move as part of a broader trend where global tech firms are strengthening leadership in Asia to tap into high-growth opportunities. Mani’s experience in building digital ecosystems and navigating large-scale consumer platforms is likely to play a crucial role in driving OpenAI’s ambitions in the region.

While neither company has made an official announcement yet, the development signals a deeper push by OpenAI to establish a stronger foothold in Asia Pacific, aligning with the region’s growing influence in the global technology narrative.