Effective as of 23 October, Walker will oversee Intel’s global marketing group and be responsible for building and strengthening Intel’s brand, supporting growth strategies, cultivating opportunities in new and existing markets, and increasing demand for Intel’s products and solutions globally.
“Karen is a truly a world-class CMO,” said Bob Swan, CEO of Intel. “She has deep experience with many of our most valued customers and a keen understanding of what it will take to play an even larger role in their success. We are excited to have Karen on our leadership team.”
Walker most served as chief marketing officer of Cisco, a position she has held since 2015. In that role, she helped lead the company’s evolution to a hybrid business model selling hardware, software, services and software as-a-service (SaaS) solutions. Additionally, she transformed the marketing function, helping to increase the company’s brand value.
“Intel is an iconic company at a pivotal moment as it transforms to power a world of new possibilities and expanded market opportunities,” said Walker. “It is one of the most globally recognised brands with a strong story to tell. I look forward to joining a great team and building the future of technology together.”
Prior to her tenure at Cisco, Walker also worked at Hewlett-Packard, where she held both business and consumer leadership positions. She also serves as a board member of Eli Lilly, Spark Social and the Association of National Advertisers (ANA).
In her new position, Walker will report to Michelle Johnston Holthaus, executive vice president and general manager of Intel’s sales, marketing and communications group.
