Intel kicks out its marketing chief

The Oregonian reports Intel ousted its chief marketing officer. Steve Fund joined Intel four years ago, after holding high-profile jobs at Procter & Gamble and Staples. He will be remember as the man who implemented the new (and hated) Xeon naming scheme, and the driving force behind the aerial drone lightshows.

Under Fund, Intel's marketing shifted from its historical "Intel Inside" tagline to emphasize aerial drone lightshows and sponsorships at the Olympics, Super Bowl and other high-profile sporting events. Intel sought to use drones and 3D camera systems, neither of which are central to its business, to revitalize its brand and highlight practical applications for technology.

Michelle Johnston Holthaus, general manager of the company's sales and marketing organization, will take over Fund's job until Intel finds a replacement. In a memo to his workforce, CEO Brian Krzanich revealed Fund will now handle unspecified "special projects", and will report to general counsel Steve Rodgers. More details about these special projects will be announced at a later date.