Biography

Mr. Kava is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in the commercial data center and semiconductor industries. In his current role at Google, he focuses on innovation, operations management, customer relations, and information technology. Over the course of his career, he has consistently demonstrated a successful track record of transforming business operations to drive growth and profitability.

Mr. Kava contributes to the Board his extensive executive career in managing global data centers, a key growth area for Chemours, and deep understanding of operations, design, construction, and new product integration. His expertise enhances the Board’s oversight of business strategy, particularly high-growth end markets, customer experience, and operationalizing innovative technologies.

Mr. Kava received a Bachelor’s degree in Materials Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He holds four U.S. patents for his work in reactive ion and plasma etch technology.

Key Skills and Experience

• R&D and Technological Innovation: In his leadership roles at Google and Applied Materials, Mr. Kava has gained extensive experience in developing and implementing strategies to scale hardware infrastructure and drive adoption of innovative information systems and technologies that support operational efficiencies and business growth.
• Global Operations: Mr. Kava has acquired extensive global operational experience through his executive leadership roles, including his current position at Google, where he oversees [operations and supply chain for] the company’s global data centers Previously, at Applied Materials, he was responsible for worldwide operations and several product groups for the corporate Information Technology organization.
• Environmental, Health, Safety, and Sustainability: In his current role at Google, Mr. Kava oversees environmental, health and safety programs for data centers, and has led implementation of cutting-edge designs and engineering projects to drive industry-leading efficiency and sustainability performance.

 Career Highlights:

• Google
  • VP, Data Centers (since 2008)
• RagingWire Enterprise Solutions
  • COO (2006-2008)
• Applied Materials
  • Managing Director, Global Operations, eBusiness Solutions (2003-2006); Business Management, Etch Product Group (2002-2003)
  • Senior Director, Head, Service Operations, Etch Product Group (2000-2002)
  • Director, Field Operations and Product Support, Etch Product Group (1998-2000)
  • Variety of engineering roles, Etch Product Group (1992-1998)
• LSI Logic
  • Process Engineer, Etch Engineering Group (1991-1992)

Other Public Company Boards: 
None

Private Company Directorships and Other Organizations:

• The Sean Brock Foundation (since 2014)
• The Tech Interactive (since 2012)