Spencer Clark recently retired as Chief Learning Officer of Cadence Design Systems Inc., the industry leader in the electronic design automation space. In this role he built Cadence University to drive global implementation of technical, professional, executive and leadership development. He was also responsible for implementing an organizational development practice within the Cadence culture and the development and integration of an explicit talent development program into the Cadence succession planning process. 

Spencer’s background is a blend of practical business experiences combined with a strategic formal education in support of his professional objectives.  He has earned roles as President, Chief Operating Officer and General Manager with Fortune 100 companies including General Electric, Litton Industries and Black & Decker, as well as serving small privately run companies.

Committed to facilitating people in the process of their professional development, Spencer has acquired additional expertise in the deployment of 360° feedback programs, change management, and executive coaching.

For the five years preceding Cadence, he was President of his own consulting company using his skills to improve the performance in a variety of industries and disciplines, including Power, Defense, Human Performance, Security, and Manufacturing.

Spencer holds degrees in mathematics and physics, an MBA, an Executive MBA, and is an accredited Professional Nuclear Engineer. He has completed GE’s prestigious multi-year Leadership Development Program at the Crotenville Learning Center. The Crotenville experience became Spencer’s inspiration for his current role as CLO of Cadence and the foundation of his enduring passion to contribute to the building of great companies. 

Spencer is a member of the Board of Directors for the Zhongguancun-Cadence Institute of Software Technology, the Advisory Board for Leavy School of Business Santa Clara University, Board of Directors for Project Hired Inc, RFI Enterprises.