Intel retains Naga Chandrasekaran as EVP of Foundry for continuity

Intel is keeping Naga Chandrasekaran in his role as executive vice president and general manager of Intel Foundry, a move designed to maintain momentum on the company’s manufacturing strategy, technology development, and roadmap execution.

Why stability matters at Intel Foundry

Chandrasekaran joined Intel from Micron Technology in August 2024, initially appointed as EVP and general manager of Intel Foundry Manufacturing on July 25, 2024, with a start date of August 12. His role has since expanded to encompass chief technology and operations officer, giving him oversight across manufacturing, technology development, supply chain management, and customer service.

Chandrasekaran has publicly emphasized the company’s commitment to process innovation, particularly during the VLSI Symposium in June 2026, where he highlighted advancements on the Intel 18A-P process and outlined future research and development initiatives.

The 18A node is arguably the most important waypoint on Intel’s manufacturing roadmap. It represents the company’s attempt to leapfrog back to the leading edge of chipmaking after years of falling behind TSMC.

The TSMC chase

Intel has set a goal of becoming the second-largest semiconductor foundry by 2030, trailing only TSMC. Samsung currently occupies the number-two spot in the foundry market.

Semiconductor manufacturing operates on multi-year timelines. A single process node can take three to five years from initial development to high-volume production.

The bigger picture for Intel and the semiconductor market

Intel’s foundry push exists within a broader geopolitical and industrial context that has made domestic semiconductor manufacturing a strategic priority for the US government. The CHIPS Act and related policy initiatives have channeled significant funding toward expanding American chipmaking capacity, and Intel has been one of the primary beneficiaries of that push.

What this means for investors

The key metrics to watch going forward are process technology milestones, particularly around the 18A node, and customer acquisition. Chandrasekaran’s expanded role as chief technology and operations officer suggests Intel is consolidating decision-making authority across manufacturing and supply chain operations.

Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.