Intel Navigates AI Leadership Changes Amid Strategic Restructuring
Summary
- Sachin Katti, Intel’s former Chief Technology and AI Officer, has joined OpenAI, prompting significant shifts within the company’s AI division.
- CEO Chen Liwu has assumed direct leadership of the AI and advanced technology teams, emphasizing the importance of AI in Intel’s future.
- Recent departures and new hires reflect Intel’s commitment to reinforcing its position in next-generation AI workloads.
Intel Corporation is currently undergoing notable changes in its leadership, particularly within its AI division. In a recent internal memo, CEO Chen Liwu announced the departure of Sachin Katti, who was appointed as Intel’s Chief Technology and AI Officer in April 2025. Katti’s transition to OpenAI has sparked considerable shifts within Intel’s AI strategy and operational framework.
Strategic Shift in AI Leadership
In the wake of Katti’s departure, Chen Liwu has taken charge of the AI and advanced technology teams. This move is expected to refine the company’s AI strategy and ensure a streamlined execution of its advanced technology roadmap. Liwu acknowledged the “considerable change” these teams have experienced over recent months, indicating a decisive action plan to bolster Intel’s standing in the competitive AI landscape.
Liwu articulated the critical role AI plays within Intel’s business strategy, stating it as "one of Intel’s most important priorities and one of its most promising business areas." He emphasized that emerging opportunities, particularly in inference workloads driven by Agentic AI and Physical AI, are vital for the company’s growth and technological evolution.
Immediate Actions and Future Directions
In his memo, Liwu expressed a commitment to working closely with the leadership team to enhance Intel’s strategic approach to AI. He stressed the necessity for decisive action, seeking to leverage the company’s resources and ecological advantages to position Intel as a premier computing platform for next-generation AI workloads.
These proactive measures come amidst an organizational restructuring aimed at fostering innovation and efficiency within the AI sector. Notably, the recent exit of Saurabh Kulkarni, Katti’s direct report and head of data center AI who has moved to AMD, further underscores the transformative environment within Intel’s AI team.
Personnel Adjustments and Industry Implications
Intel has swiftly responded to Kulkarni’s departure by appointing Anil Nanduri, the Vice President of AI Marketing, to lead the AI product management team. This strategic realignment aims to maintain operational continuity while positioning the company for future advancements in AI technology.
Earlier this year, Chen Liwu made headlines by recruiting two industry veterans from Apple to enhance the AI engineering capabilities at Intel. Jean-Didier Allegrucci, a former chip designer at Apple, joined as Vice President of AI SoC engineering, while Shailendra Desai, previously with both Apple and Google, took on the role of Vice President overseeing AI Fabric and network architecture. These strategic hires are a testament to Intel’s commitment to infusing fresh talent and expertise into its operations.
Conclusion
As Intel navigates these significant changes, the emphasis on AI remains unwavering. The leadership transition led by Chen Liwu aims to streamline operations and reinforce Intel’s competitive edge in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. With the company poised to leverage its expansive resources and adaptive strategies, the future appears promising for Intel as it aims to capture the burgeoning opportunities within the AI sector.
In summary, Intel’s leadership shifts reflect a broader commitment to innovation and strategic growth amidst an ever-evolving technological landscape. The company’s proactive approach in reorganizing and refocusing its AI efforts positions it well for future advancements and market leadership.
