The global tech community is grieving the loss of S. “Soma” Somasegar, the former Microsoft executive and Madrona Venture Group managing director. Somasegar, who played a significant role in shaping Microsoft’s developer ecosystem, passed away at the age of 59. Tributes from Silicon Valley and Seattle poured in following the news of his death.
Indian-American entrepreneur Sriram Krishnan, also a White House AI adviser, described Somasegar as a mentor who transformed careers. Krishnan highlighted the impact Soma had on his own life and career, emphasizing the kindness and support he received. Automation software company UiPath, where Somasegar served on the board of directors, expressed sadness over his untimely passing.
Journalist Tom Warren noted Somasegar’s 27-year tenure at Microsoft, where he led the Developer Division and played a pivotal role in the company’s transformation. Former Microsoft employees and startup founders remembered him as a quiet yet influential force behind Microsoft’s shift towards cloud and developer-focused initiatives. GeekWire published a tribute describing Somasegar as a champion of developers and startups.
Somasegar, who joined Microsoft in 1989, later led the Developer Division and contributed to the establishment of Microsoft’s India Development Center in Hyderabad. After his tenure at Microsoft, he joined Madrona Venture Group, focusing on investments in AI, machine learning, and cloud infrastructure. Colleagues and friends remembered him as one of the kindest individuals, always willing to offer his time and wisdom to help others.
His influence extended beyond Microsoft into the broader startup and venture capital ecosystem, with investments in AI, cloud computing, and enterprise software firms. Somasegar, a prominent Indian-origin tech executive in Seattle, was also associated with the Seattle Orcas cricket franchise. His death has left a profound impact on those he worked with and mentored.
