Google brings in a new leader for its Gemini app as Sissie Hsiao steps Down

Gemini

Google has made a leadership change in its Gemini app team. Sissie Hsiao, who has been in charge since the app’s beginning, is stepping down from her role as Vice President and General Manager of the Gemini app and Speech. But she’s not leaving Google—she will be taking on a new role after a short break, according to a report by Semafor.

Hsiao has been with Google since 2006 and has worked on major projects like Search, Docs, Analytics, and Advertising. In 2021, she took over Google Assistant and later played a big role in developing Bard, which later became part of Gemini. She called her time leading the Gemini app “chapter 1” and said she is excited for the next phase under new leadership.

Taking over from Hsiao is Josh Woodward, who is currently a Vice President at Google Labs. He has been involved in several experimental AI projects, including NotebookLM and the Project Mariner browser agent. Woodward will now lead the Gemini app while keeping his role at Google Labs.

This change comes after some big shifts within Google. In October 2024, the Gemini app was moved from the Search division to Google DeepMind, a decision meant to speed up development and improve product integration. More recently, the Project Astra team, which works on AI-powered assistants, was also moved under the Gemini division to boost collaboration and innovation.

Additionally, the Gemini team has brought in a new Vice President of Product from Meta, someone with a strong track record in launching products.