Kara Elizabeth DioGuardi (See inogolo:pronunciation of Kara DioGuardi.; born December 9, 1970) is an American singer-songwriter, record producer, music publisher, A&R executive, and TV personality. She writes music primarily in the light pop-rock, dance, and R&B genres. DioGuardi has worked with Ashley Tisdale, Miley Cyrus, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Celine Dion, P!nk, Kelly Clarkson, Anna Vissi, Carrie Underwood, Demi Lovato, Hilary Duff and Paula Abdul, among many others.

She is also a judge on American Idol, having joined the show in its eighth season and is now working with its winner, Kris Allen. DioGuardi currently serves as Vice President of A&R for Warner Bros. Records where she was appointed to in 2008.