SIA CEO John Neuffer to Step Down

• The Semiconductor Industry Association has announced that its longtime president and CEO, John Neuffer, will retire in mid‑2026.
• His 11‑year tenure included major policy achievements that reshaped U.S. semiconductor strategy.
• The transition marks a significant moment for an industry navigating rapid technological and geopolitical change.

A decade of leadership at a pivotal time

The Semiconductor Industry Association confirmed that John Neuffer will retire after more than a decade at the helm. His tenure coincided with a period in which semiconductor policy became central to economic competitiveness and national security. SIA represents nearly the entire U.S. chip industry by revenue, as well as a large share of global firms operating outside the United States. Neuffer’s departure comes as the sector continues to expand domestic manufacturing and strengthen supply chain resilience.

Industry leaders highlighted the impact of his work on long‑term U.S. technology strategy. AMD chair and CEO Dr. Lisa Su, who also serves as SIA’s 2026 board chair, noted that Neuffer helped reinforce the policy framework supporting innovation and global competitiveness. She emphasized that SIA is better positioned to advance economic and security priorities because of his leadership. Her remarks underscored the association’s role in shaping national semiconductor initiatives.

Neuffer’s influence extended across a wide range of policy areas. His efforts helped align industry priorities with government programs aimed at expanding chip production. The association’s advocacy contributed to a more coordinated approach to semiconductor strategy. These developments occurred during a time of heightened global competition in advanced technology.

Major policy gains and industry‑wide impact

SIA achieved several significant policy victories under Neuffer’s guidance. The most notable involved the passage and expansion of U.S. semiconductor manufacturing incentives, which have driven more than $600 billion in private investment commitments. These incentives are expected to help the United States more than triple its domestic chip production capacity by 2032. Additional federal R&D funding secured by the association further strengthened the country’s innovation ecosystem.

The organization also played a key role in advancing international trade agreements. Expansion of the Information Technology Agreement reduced barriers for technology products, while a global deal preventing tariffs on cross‑border data transfers supported the competitiveness of digital services. These agreements helped maintain stable market conditions for semiconductor companies operating worldwide. Their adoption reflected broad industry support for open and predictable trade policies.

Neuffer also guided SIA through several major disruptions. The global chip shortages and pandemic‑related production shutdowns posed challenges for manufacturers and downstream industries. SIA worked to coordinate responses and communicate industry needs to policymakers. These efforts helped mitigate some of the supply chain pressures that affected global markets.

Transition planning and the search for new leadership

Neuffer expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with industry leaders and contribute to U.S. semiconductor progress. He noted that the sector faces significant challenges but also substantial opportunities as demand for advanced chips continues to grow. His comments reflected optimism about the industry’s long‑term trajectory. He also emphasized his appreciation for the SIA team and their commitment to the organization’s mission.

A structured transition process is already underway. Neuffer will remain in his role until a successor is appointed, which is expected to occur around mid‑2026. SIA has hired Korn Ferry to conduct a comprehensive search for the next president and CEO. The firm will evaluate candidates capable of guiding the association through the next phase of industry expansion.

The leadership change comes at a time when semiconductor policy remains a national priority. Continued investment in manufacturing, research and workforce development will shape the sector’s future. SIA’s next leader will be responsible for maintaining momentum across these initiatives. The transition is expected to be smooth, given the organization’s established strategic direction.

John Neuffer’s tenure coincided with a historic shift in how governments view semiconductor supply chains. Several countries have launched large‑scale incentive programs to reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing hubs, particularly in East Asia. Analysts note that the U.S. CHIPS Act and similar initiatives abroad have triggered a global race to secure advanced fabrication capacity. This environment has elevated the role of industry associations like SIA, making leadership transitions especially consequential.