In this in-depth conversation, Todd McKinnon, co-founder and CEO of Okta, discusses how his company is navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and the evolving software landscape. He expresses a healthy paranoia about the so-called SaaSpocalypse—the risk from customers building their own internal tools—and explains why Okta sees a massive opportunity in managing AI agent identities within organizations. Agents, which are hybrid identities somewhere between people and systems, require new approaches to security and integration, and Okta is pioneering a blueprint for an agent-centric enterprise with standards and kill switches to mitigate risks. Todd also reflects on evolving organizational structures and leadership tactics needed to thrive in this rapidly changing AI-driven world, emphasizing adaptability, customer trust, and collaboration across platforms. The company aims to become the backbone for secure agent orchestration as the market for AI agents expands dramatically. The interview touches on how AI agents intersect with databases, the importance of digital identity, challenges around AI-powered fraud, and the vital role of regulation and industry standards in shaping the future of software and cybersecurity.
Back
