Nokia Appoints Justin Hotard, Leader of Intel’s AI, CEO
Justin Hotard, the executive vice president and general manager of Intel’s Data Centre & AI Group, was appointed today by Finland’s Nokia Corporation, marking a major transition in the company’s leadership. Hotard will start the role on April 1, 2025.
Due to declining sales of 5G equipment, telecom equipment manufacturers have been searching for methods to expand into new markets and into developing fields like artificial intelligence.
With his most recent position as the head of Intel’s (NASDAQ:INTC) Data Centre & AI Group, Hotard has more than 25 years of experience in the global technology industry. He has also held executive roles at NCR (NYSE:VYX) Corporation and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE:HPE).
In a statement, Nokia Chair Sari Baldauf explained, “He has a strong track record of accelerating growth in technology companies along with vast expertise in AI and data centre markets, which are critical areas for Nokia’s future growth.”
“The timing felt right for a transition,” Lundmark explained, adding that he was proud of the team’s achievements during his leadership. After leaving on March 31, 2025, he intends to get into a another line of employment, possibly as a board professional. To guarantee a seamless transfer, he will remain Hotard’s advisor through the end of the year.
