Intel Ousts Key Executive Holthaus After Brief Tenure, Signals Deeper Restructuring
SANTA CLARA, CA – Intel has dismissed Michelle Johnston Holthaus, executive vice president and general manager of the Foundry Services business, after just nine months in the role. The move, announced internally and confirmed by the company, signals a significant restructuring effort as Intel navigates a critical period of investment and competition in the semiconductor manufacturing sector.
The unexpected departure of Holthaus comes amid increased scrutiny following significant public funding secured by Intel, and points to a push for more decisive leadership and a clearer strategic vision. Intel is undergoing a transformation to become a major player in contract chip manufacturing, challenging established leaders like TSMC and Samsung. This restructuring involves consolidating engineering efforts and expanding the responsibilities of other key executives, including srinivasan Iyengar, now leading a new central engineering group focused on custom silicon, and Naga Chandrasekaran, who will oversee expanded Foundry Services. Jim johnson has been appointed to lead the computer science area.
Holthaus’s dismissal follows a broader reorganization initiated by CEO Pat Gelsinger, aimed at accelerating Intel’s turnaround and capitalizing on opportunities in the rapidly evolving semiconductor landscape. Kechichian will now report directly to Lip-Bu Tan, further centralizing command within the company.Intel’s success hinges on executing its aspiring IDM 2.0 strategy, which includes significant investments in new manufacturing facilities and technologies.
The changes reflect a need for “much stronger company vision, a future determinant,” according to internal assessments. While Holthaus’s departure is notable, Intel emphasizes that deeper, more fundamental changes are essential for sustained success and avoiding further missteps.
