Nokia has boldly strengthened its foothold in artificial intelligence and technology by appointing Pallavi Mahajan, a former Intel executive, as its new Chief Technology and AI Officer.
This appointment underscores Nokia’s dedication to enhancing data centre connectivity in the face of a challenging telecommunications expenditure environment and its emphasis on innovation within its research and development arm, Nokia Bell Labs.
Pallavi Mahajan’s leadership role at Nokia
Mahajan joins Nokia with a wealth of experience, having been corporate vice president and general manager of Intel’s data centre and AI group.
She will lead the newly established Technology and AI Organisation at Nokia, consolidating Nokia Bell Labs, Technology and AI Leadership, and Group Security.
Her role will include guiding work on data centre technologies while overseeing AI initiatives—a critical push under Nokia’s new CEO, Justin Hotard, a former Intel executive.
“To succeed in the AI supercycle, we need to focus on differentiation through our core technologies, strengthen capabilities in security and AI, and maximise partnership value,” Hotard stated.
Driving Innovation with AI and Network Infrastructure
Creating the Technology and AI Organisation under Mahajan aims to revitalise Nokia’s network infrastructure ambitions with AI-driven data centre connectivity solutions.
The company is looking to diversify its customer base and compete against players like Ciena Corp. Nokia positions itself to capitalise on cloud, edge computing, and AI-powered automation by integrating AI with network operations.
At HPE and Juniper Networks, Mahajan led innovation in hybrid cloud strategies and self-driving network technologies, which are essential to Nokia’s goals.
Strategic shift amid telecom Industry challenges
Nokia’s creation of an AI section overseen by a tech veteran stems from declines in worldwide telecom investment. By advancing its technological stack, Nokia gains a competitive edge through security and AI improvements.
Concurrently, the company formed a Corporate Development Organisation led by Konstanty Owczarek, focusing on strategy, mergers, and partnerships. These organisational changes reflect Nokia’s broader plan to innovate aggressively and adapt to evolving market demands.