Kara Sakuda Kharrat Joins Cisco as VP of CEO Communications

Cisco has appointed Kara Sakuda Kharrat as Vice President of CEO Communications, bringing an experienced communications leader back to the technology sector.

Kharrat shared that the move represents a return to an industry where she has spent much of her career. She also described the timing as significant for both Cisco and the broader technology industry, as companies navigate rapid changes driven by artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, networking, and digital infrastructure.

In her new role, Kharrat will focus on CEO communications, supporting the executive narrative around Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins. The position places her at the intersection of corporate communications, executive positioning, storytelling, and stakeholder engagement.

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CEO communications has become increasingly important as technology companies operate in a more complex environment. Executives are expected to communicate not only business performance and strategy but also their organizations’ perspectives on major technology shifts, industry changes, and broader business issues.

Kharrat’s appointment comes as Cisco continues to operate at the center of several major technology developments. AI is changing enterprise infrastructure and cybersecurity, while organizations are reassessing how networks support increasingly distributed and AI-enabled workloads.

Her background across technology and other industries brings experience in communicating through periods of transformation. This is particularly relevant as technology companies increasingly need to explain complex developments to employees, customers, partners, investors, and the wider business community.

The appointment also highlights the evolving role of corporate communications leaders. Executive communications increasingly extends beyond traditional media relations, incorporating digital channels, employee engagement, thought leadership, corporate reputation, and clear communication around business transformation.

Kharrat expressed her intention to help tell the stories behind Cisco’s people, innovation, and impact as she begins the new role. Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins and Steve Clayton also welcomed her appointment.

For the broader MarTech and communications industry, her move reflects the growing importance of strategic executive storytelling as technology companies navigate an increasingly complex and rapidly changing market.