OpenAI Expands in Asia: Kiran Mani Named APAC Chief to Drive India Growth

OpenAI has appointed Kiran Mani who is the former CEO of JioStar as the Managing Director for Asia-Pacific (APAC). Appointment was announced on March 25, 2026. He will lead OpenAI’s expansion across Asia from its Singapore office will be reporting to Chief Strategy Officer Jason Kwon. This appointment highlights firms growing focus on high-potential markets like India.

Who is Kiran Mani?

Kiran Mani is a seasoned technology and business leader with vast experience in digital platforms and global companies.

Before joining OpenAI  he served as the CEO of JioStar which is the joint venture between Reliance Industries and Walt Disney.

He has also worked with the major tech giants like Google, Microsoft and IBM and he spending over a decade at Google where he led Android and Google Play operations across Asia-Pacific and Japan.

Why OpenAI is Expanding in Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is one of the largest and fastest-growing digital markets in the world.

Countries like India, Indonesia and Japan offers the huge user bases and with this will increasing demand for AI-driven services.

India’s 1.4 billion population is a key focus area for OpenAI. The company sees huge potential in various sectors like education, healthcare and digital services.

OpenAI’s Strategy in India and Asia

It has been steadily strengthening the presence in India. In 2024 the company hired its first employee in India which are focusing on government relations.

In February 2026, OpenAI also partnered with the Tata Group to develop AI technologies and data center infrastructure in India.

With this OpenAI aims to accelerate adoption of ChatGPT and other AI tools while  building partnership.

Question

Q. Kiran Mani has been appointed as Managing Director of which company for Asia-Pacific?

A. Google
B. Microsoft
C. OpenAI
D. Amazon