In a significant move, Intel Corporation has appointed Dr. Naga Chandrasekaran as the new Chief Global Operations Officer, Executive Vice President, and General Manager of its Foundry Manufacturing and Supply Chain organization. Dr. Chandrasekaran, an accomplished technocrat with extensive experience in semiconductor manufacturing and technology development, will join Intel from Micron. He will assume his new role on August 12, 2024, succeeding Keyvan Esfarjani, who is retiring after nearly 30 years of service. This appointment marks a pivotal moment for Intel as it continues to build a resilient semiconductor supply chain and advance its foundry operations.
A New Era for Intel Foundry
Dr. Naga Chandrasekaran’s appointment signals a new era for Intel Foundry. With over two decades of experience at Micron, where he led global technology development and engineering efforts, Chandrasekaran brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Intel. His leadership is expected to drive significant advancements in Intel’s manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the areas of Fab Sort Manufacturing, Assembly Test Manufacturing, and strategic planning for Intel Foundry.
Chandrasekaran’s extensive background in process and equipment development, device technology, and mask technology positions him well to lead Intel’s foundry operations. His role will also encompass corporate quality assurance and supply chain management, ensuring that Intel maintains its high standards of excellence. As Intel continues to innovate and expand its foundry services, Chandrasekaran’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Moreover, Chandrasekaran’s appointment reflects Intel’s commitment to building a globally resilient semiconductor supply chain. His experience in scaling current memory technologies and advanced packaging technology will be instrumental in achieving this goal. By leveraging his expertise, Intel aims to enhance its competitive edge and capitalize on long-term growth opportunities in the semiconductor industry.
Leadership and Vision
Dr. Chandrasekaran’s leadership style is characterized by a deep understanding of technology and a strategic vision for the future. At Micron, he played a pivotal role in advancing the company’s technology development and engineering efforts. His contributions to the scaling of memory technologies and emerging technology solutions have been widely recognized in the industry.
As he transitions to Intel, Chandrasekaran is expected to bring a fresh perspective and innovative approach to the company’s foundry operations. His dual executive MBAs from UCLA-Anderson School of Management and the National University of Singapore, along with his advanced degrees in mechanical engineering and information and data science, provide him with a unique blend of technical and managerial expertise.
Chandrasekaran’s appointment is also a testament to Intel’s focus on fostering leadership that can drive technological innovation and operational excellence. His ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects will be invaluable as Intel continues to evolve its foundry business. With Chandrasekaran at the helm, Intel is poised to strengthen its position as a leader in the semiconductor industry.
Strategic Goals and Future Directions
Looking ahead, Dr. Chandrasekaran’s strategic goals for Intel Foundry will likely focus on enhancing manufacturing efficiency, driving technological innovation, and expanding customer services. His experience in process R&D and operations will be critical in optimizing Intel’s manufacturing processes and ensuring the highest quality standards.
One of Chandrasekaran’s key priorities will be to advance Intel’s foundry capabilities to meet the demands of the AI-driven computing era. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaboration with fabless customers, Intel aims to create a robust ecosystem that supports the development and manufacturing of next-generation chips.
Additionally, Chandrasekaran will play a vital role in Intel’s efforts to build a globally resilient semiconductor supply chain. His expertise in strategic planning and supply chain management will be essential in navigating the complexities of the global semiconductor market. By strengthening Intel’s supply chain resilience, Chandrasekaran will help the company mitigate risks and capitalize on growth opportunities.
As Intel continues to innovate and expand its foundry services, Chandrasekaran’s leadership will be instrumental in achieving the company’s long-term strategic goals. His appointment marks a significant step forward for Intel, positioning the company for success in the rapidly evolving semiconductor industry.
