Nokia Oyj will replace Chief Executive Officer Pekka Lundmark with Intel Corp.’s recently appointed head of artificial intelligence Justin Hotard in a surprise announcement as the network equipment maker works to exit a prolonged slump in orders from phone operators.

Nokia announces a leadership change. CEO Pekka Lundmark will step down in March 2025. Justin Hotard, with over 25 years of tech industry experience, will succeed him on April 1, 2025.

KEY TAKEAWAYS Nokia said Monday that it has appointed Intel’s Justin Hotard as CEO, replacing Pekka Lundmark, as the Finnish telecoms equipment maker looks to beef up its artificial intelligence business.