Simplilearn brings back Jitendra Kumar as CTO to lead AI integration

Blackstone-backed edtech firm Simplilearn has named Jitendra Kumar as its chief technology officer (CTO), marking his return to the company after previously holding the role until September 2019.

His return follows the departure of Kapil Suri, Senior Vice President of Technology, who is leaving to explore new opportunities.

Kumar will lead Simplilearn’s AI-first approach, integrating a range of technologies—using generative and predictive AI to personalise learning experiences—and expand the company’s global reach.

Like many skilling-focused edtech companies in India, Simplilearn is placing greater emphasis on expanding its geographic reach and growing its B2B segment.

“We are delighted to welcome Jitendra back as part of our executive team. His reappointment comes at a pivotal moment as we sharpen our global AI strategy internally and as a market-facing solution,” said Krishna Kumar, Founder and CEO of Simplilearn, in a statement.

“Jitendra’s leadership will be critical in advancing our AI-readiness, scaling capabilities, and strengthening our position as a leading digital upskilling platform. His diverse industry experience will be invaluable as we strengthen our presence across global markets,” the CEO added.

During his seven-and-a-half-year tenure at Simplilearn, which began in April 2012, he played a key role in building high-performance web and mobile platforms that were critical to the company’s growth and expansion.

Kumar, an experienced entrepreneur and technology leader, co-founded and served as CEO of HappyCredit, a fintech startup backed by Kunal Shah. In 2024, he also founded ReelOn, an AI-driven video content creation platform designed for creators, agencies, and brands.

“I am excited to return to Simplilearn during such a transformative time for the company and the edtech industry at large. As we accelerate our AI journey, we must adopt a holistic approach, embedding AI across our tech and learning ecosystem to create smarter, more personalised, and scalable upskilling solutions,” the CTO said.

“Our goal is to bridge the gap between AI ambition and real-world readiness, empowering talent and businesses to lead confidently in the AI-first era,” he added.

Simplilearn’s FY25 financials are not yet available. Its revenue in FY24 reached Rs 773 crore, up from Rs 701 crore in FY23, driven by key initiatives focused on boosting customer retention and increasing referral rates.

This growth was further supported by a rising demand for technology-focused upskilling, as companies and individuals show strong interest in courses covering artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and other emerging technologies.

The company reduced its EBITDA losses by 75% in FY24 compared with FY23, reflecting its emphasis on sustainable growth and improved operational efficiency. EBITDA, or earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, is a key measure of core operational performance.

Edtech companies have pivoted toward building resilient businesses, prioritising disciplined financial management and thoughtful scaling. With investors demanding not just promises but proven pathways to profitability, startups are reimagining their strategies.

In July 2021, NYSE-listed Blackstone acquired a majority stake in Simplilearn for $250 million. The deal provided the edtech startup’s investors with an almost 7X return on their investments following their exit.

Simplilearn has secured close to $300 million in equity funding to date, including a $45 million round led by a GSV Ventures-led consortium in 2022, when the company was valued at around $600 million.

Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Texas, US and Bengaluru, Simplilearn operates in the digital upskilling sector, providing learners worldwide with access to work-ready training. It offers more than 1,500 live online classes each month across 150 countries, reaching over 8 million learners globally.