Meet Lip-Bu Tan: Intel's New CEO Tasked With Turning Around The Struggling Chipmaker (Image:X/intel)
Intel, the US-based semiconductor giant has appointed Lip-Bu Tan as its new CEO on Wednesday, a move aimed at reviving the company’s fortunes amid its ongoing struggles.
Tan, who is widely recognised in the tech world for his experience as both an investor and a seasoned industry veteran, takes over at a critical time for Intel.
We are thrilled to welcome Lip-Bu Tan as Intel’s new CEO! Here’s to Intel’s next era of innovation. 🤝 https://t.co/VXUdGJ43vG
— Intel (@intel) March 12, 2025
The company has allegedly faced numerous challenges under the leadership of former CEO Pat Gelsinger, particularly falling behind in the booming AI market and its battle to regain its dominance in semiconductor manufacturing.
Now, with Tan at the helm, the tech world is eager to see if his vast expertise will help steer Intel toward a brighter future.
Tan was born in Malaysia and later moved to Singapore, where he completed his undergraduate studies at the Nanyang University of Singapore.
He furthered his education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), earning a Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering.
Also, read| AI Is Not The Reason Behind Struggling Software Job Market: Zoho CEO
Tan’s early career path was shaped by the global energy arena, especially after the infamous 1979 Three Mile Island nuclear accident, which led to a shift in his academic focus.
Rather than completing his PhD at MIT, Lip-Bu Tan pursued an MBA from San Francisco University, marking the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey.
In 1987, Tan founded Walden International, a venture capital firm focused on investing in tech startups across Asia. Under his leadership, the firm backed successful companies like Creative Technology, Sina Corp, and Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp, positioning Tan as a forward-thinking investor.
His reputation as an astute businessman grew over time, and he became known for being a contrarian, avoiding trends and instead focusing on long-term, high-potential projects.
Tan’s leadership skills were further honed when he became CEO of Cadence Design Systems in 2009. Cadence is a key player in the semiconductor industry, providing software tools for chip design, including for major companies like Intel.
Also, read| OpenAI To Launch Specialised AI Agents Priced Up To $20,000: Report
Under Tan’s leadership, Cadence experienced monumental growth, with the company’s revenue and stock price soaring during his tenure. His deep connections within the semiconductor world, developed during his years as an investor, were pivotal in navigating this complex industry.
Intel’s challenges in recent years, particularly its failure to keep up with competitors like Nvidia in the AI market, made headlines.
After a tumultuous four years under Pat Gelsinger, Intel was facing increasing pressure to rethink its business model.
Investors urged the company to explore other avenues, including cutting its losses and spinning off certain businesses.
Although Tan is taking on the role of CEO, he is not entirely new to Intel. In fact, Tan served on Intel’s board of directors in the past but left the position last year after disagreements with former CEO Pat Gelsinger about the company’s strategy.
