Intel Corp. on Monday announced that the company’s president and CEO, Paul Otellini, has decided to retire as an officer and director at the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting in May, starting an orderly leadership transition over the next six months. Otellini’s decision to retire will bring to a close a remarkable career of nearly 40 years of continuous service to the company and its stockholders.

“Paul Otellini has been a very strong leader, only the fifth CEO in the company’s great 45-year history, and one who has managed the company through challenging times and market transitions. The board is grateful for his innumerable contributions to the company and his distinguished tenure as CEO over the last eight years,” said Andy Bryant, chairman of the board.

During Otellini’s tenure as CEO -- from the second quarter of 2005 through the third quarter of 2012, Intel generated $107 billion cash from operations, made $23.5 billion in dividend payments, increased the quarterly dividend 181% percent from $0.08 to $0.225.

From the end of 2005 through the end of 2011, Intel achieved record revenue and net income.  During this period, annual revenue grew from $38.8 billion to $54 billion, while annual earnings-per-share grew from $1.40 to $2.39.

In addition to financial performance, Intel, under Otellini’s leadership, achieved notable successes in areas of strategic importance. During this period, the company, achieved breakthrough innovations, including high-k/metal gate and now 3D tri-gate transistors; and dramatic improvement in energy efficiency of Intel processors; greatly expanded business partnerships and made strategic acquisitions that expanded Intel’s presence in security, software and mobile communications; delivered the first smartphones and tablets for sale with Intel inside; grew the vast network of cloud-based computing built on Intel products and transformed operations and the cost structure for long-term growth.

“I’ve been privileged to lead one of the world’s greatest companies. After almost four decades with the company and eight years as CEO, it’s time to move on and transfer Intel’s helm to a new generation of leadership. I look forward to working with Andy, the board and the management team during the six-month transition period, and to being available as an advisor to management after retiring as CEO,” said Mr. Otellini.

The board of directors will conduct the process to choose Otellini’s successor and will consider internal and external candidates for the job.

In addition, the company also announced that the board has approved the promotion of three senior leaders to the position of executive vice president: Renee James, head of Intel’s software business; Brian Krzanich, chief operating officer and head of worldwide manufacturing; and Stacy Smith, chief financial officer and director of corporate strategy.

Tags: Intel, Business