Windsurf
OpenAI's plan to buy the AI coding startup Windsurf for $3 billion went south, but Google DeepMind swooped in, hiring Windsurf's CEO Varun Mohan, co-founder Douglas Chen, and top researchers. Google will license Windsurf's tech and hire its talent for $2.4 billion, boosting its AI coding efforts. This reverse-acquihire lets Google pick up talent and tech without a full acquisition—echoing past deals and Microsoft’s playbook. Read More
NASA
President Trump has appointed Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy as acting NASA Chief, marking an unusual dual role as Duffy continues to lead the Department of Transportation. With no formal background in science or space, Duffy steps in amid proposed NASA budget cuts and staffing reductions. Trump’s abrupt withdrawal of Jared Isaacman’s nomination over ties to Elon Musk also adds a layer of uncertainty to the appointment. Read More
Meta
Meta’s hiring spree rolls on, snagging OpenAI researcher Jason Wei, with reports hinting Hyung Won Chung is next. Both are known for their deep model research and will boost Meta’s Superintelligence Lab as it pushes toward AGI. Call it a snub or just business—either way, Zuckerberg’s not slowing down. Read More
Ben & Jerry’s
Amid a bitter legal fight, Unilever named Jochanan Senf CEO of Ben & Jerry’s without the brand’s input—flexing its parent-company power. The brand’s board fumes that former CEO David Stever was ousted for his outspoken social activism, not his performance. Unilever, however, appears unfazed as it moves ahead with plans to spin off its ice cream business, which includes Ben & Jerry’s, into The Magnum Ice Cream Company. Read More
Tesla
Tesla is facing a major senior exodus as global sales drop 13.5%. VP of Sales Troy Jones has left after 15 years, following the recent departure of Musk’s top aide Omead Afshar, who oversaw all of sales and manufacturing operations in North America and Europe. With rising pressure from BYD and ongoing regulatory hurdles, Tesla’s challenges are starting to pile up. Read More
Kenvue
Tylenol and Band-Aid maker Kenvue is making bold moves—CEO Thibaut Mongon has been ousted under investor pressure to improve performance. Kirk Perry steps in as interim CEO as the company, spun off from Johnson & Johnson in 2023, looks to boost profitability and considers shedding some brands. Read More
Omilia
Omilia, a leader in conversational AI, has appointed Marios Fakiolas as its new CTO. Bringing deep technical expertise, Marios returns to Omilia to drive its next phase of AI transformation. His founding of HelloWorld PC in 2021 highlights his track record of innovation. Read More
Dave & Buster’s
Dave & Buster’s has tapped Tarun Lal as its new CEO, aiming to reverse slipping sales. With a background at Yum Brands and KFC, Lal brings seasoned experience that could help steer the company back on track. Read More
FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight, an LTL segment gearing up for a spinoff, is bolstering its C-suite with a mix of seasoned FedEx veterans and an outside hire. Key players like Eddie Klank, Mike Lyons, and Clint McCoy will take on new leadership roles. The company also welcomes Michael Rodgers as its new CTO, bringing experience from Pilot Flying J. Read More
Friedman Industries
Friedman Industries has appointed Gaurav Chhibbar as its new COO. Gaurav brings a wealth of experience in operations, strategy, and finance from his time at Boston Consulting Group Inc., Metal Edge Partners LLC, and Cargill Inc. His expertise is expected to drive growth and innovation for Friedman Industries. Read More
Want more org charts? Sign up to The Org here!
