Former Intel CEO And President Paul Otellini Passes Away At 66

This is a sad day in Santa Clara. Intel has lost a legend in Paul Otellini, a former chief executive officer and president of the largest semiconductor company in the world, who passed away in his sleep on Monday, October 2, 2017. The lifelong Intel employee was 66 years old at the time of his passing—way too young. His death caps off an immensely sad weekend of events that includes the death of over 50 concert goers in Las Vegas, followed by the passing of rock and roll icon Tom Petty, who was also just 66 years old.

"We are deeply saddened by Paul’s passing,” Intel CEO Brian Krzanich said. "He was the relentless voice of the customer in a sea of engineers, and he taught us that we only win when we put the customer first."
Otellini found himself in elite company when he became Intel's fifth CEO in 2005. He was succeeded by Krzanich, just the sixth CEO of Intel.

Under Otellini's leadership, Intel made giant strides in technology and was able to remain profitable even during the global recession. Looking back, Intel generated more revenue during Otellini's eight-year run as CEO that it did during the company's entire previous 45 years. Just prior to Intel naming Otellini CEO, the company recorded $34 billion in sales. By 2012, that number had grown to $53 billion.

Born in San Francisco on October 12, 1950, Otellini loved the area and would remain there for many years to come. He received a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of San Francisco in 1974, then joined Intel that same year. Throughout his tenure, he would hold numerous positions, including general manager of Intel's Peripheral Components Operation and the Folsom Microcomputer Division. In 1989, he was named chief of staff.

From there he rose to executive vice president and general manager of the Intel Architecture Group, where he oversaw the company's microprocessor and chipset businesses and strategies for the desktop, mobile, and enterprise computing.

"Paul’s business acumen, optimism and dedication fueled our growth throughout his tenure as CEO," Intel Chairman Andy Bryant said. "His tireless drive, discipline and humility were cornerstones of his leadership and live on in our company values to this day."

Otellini leaves behind his wife of 30 years, Sandy. He is also survived by his son, Patrick, and his daughter, Alexis.

From all of us at HotHardware, out heartfelt condolences go out to Otellini's family and friends, and Intel. Rest in peace, brother Paul.

Image Source: Intel Corp.