Qualcomm Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Qualcomm has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, marketing, and regional operations.

Driven by innovation, Qualcomm is dedicated to advancing wireless technologies and connecting the world through its pioneering ideas and inventions, shaping digital communications for over 25 years.

Leadership Roles at Qualcomm

  • Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of - Aleeza Lawson
  • Deputy Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of - Brandon Cheung
  • Chief Financial Officer - Akash Palkhiwala
  • Chief of Staff To the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer - Claudia Amezcua
  • VP & President, QC Japan - Yasumasa Nakayama
  • President, & Sea (Taiwan) - St Liew
  • Chief of Staff - Sanam Chawla
  • Chief Technology Officer - Baaziz Achour
  • Director, Operations & To Qcom's Chief of Staff & Supply Chain Chief & Operations Officer - Brad Nolte
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer - Donald McGuire
  • Aleeza Lawson - Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of

    Aleeza Lawson, the Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of at Qualcomm, directs strategic operations and executive support for the CEO's office. This role involves orchestrating key initiatives and ensuring alignment across the organization's highest levels. Aleeza Lawson facilitates critical decision-making processes and drives the execution of the company's strategic vision. The Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of is instrumental in managing executive communications and coordinating cross-functional projects. Lawson's leadership ensures that the CEO's office operates with maximum efficiency and impact, supporting Qualcomm's continued innovation and global leadership in wireless technology and semiconductor solutions.

    Brandon Cheung - Deputy Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of

    Brandon Cheung, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of at Qualcomm, supports the strategic direction and operational execution emanating from the CEO's office. This executive assists in managing high-priority projects and ensuring cohesive communication across leadership teams. Brandon Cheung plays a vital role in streamlining executive operations and facilitating the implementation of corporate strategies. The Deputy Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of contributes to maintaining organizational alignment and driving key business objectives. Cheung's involvement is critical in supporting Qualcomm's mission to advance wireless technologies and connect the world through its innovative semiconductor solutions.
    Brandon Cheung

    Akash Palkhiwala - Chief Financial Officer

    Akash Palkhiwala, the Chief Financial Officer at Qualcomm, directs the company's financial strategy and fiscal operations. This executive manages all aspects of financial planning, investment, and capital allocation, ensuring robust fiscal health. Akash Palkhiwala oversees the financial reporting, treasury functions, and investor relations, maintaining transparency and confidence with stakeholders. The Chief Financial Officer plays a crucial role in driving profitable growth and optimizing financial performance across Qualcomm's diverse business units, including its semiconductor operations. Palkhiwala's leadership ensures that financial resources are strategically deployed to support innovation and market expansion. This position is fundamental to sustaining Qualcomm's position as a world leader in wireless technologies and driving long-term shareholder value.
    Akash Palkhiwala

    Claudia Amezcua - Chief of Staff To the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer

    Claudia Amezcua, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Qualcomm, provides critical support in managing dual executive priorities. This role involves coordinating strategic initiatives and operational projects that span both financial and operational domains. Claudia Amezcua facilitates communication and alignment between the CFO and COO offices, ensuring efficient execution of complex directives. The Chief of Staff To the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer supports the strategic planning processes and drives operational improvements across various functions. Amezcua's efforts are vital in enhancing the synergy between financial oversight and operational execution, contributing to Qualcomm's overall business objectives and market leadership in wireless technology.

    Yasumasa Nakayama - VP & President, QC Japan

    Yasumasa Nakayama, the VP & President, QC Japan at Qualcomm, leads the company's strategic operations and market presence within Japan. This executive is responsible for driving business growth and fostering key relationships in the Japanese market, a critical region for wireless technology adoption. Yasumasa Nakayama oversees the execution of Qualcomm's product and service strategies tailored to local demands. The VP & President, QC Japan ensures that Qualcomm's innovations in 3G, 4G, and future wireless technologies effectively serve the Japanese consumer and enterprise sectors. Nakayama's leadership is pivotal in strengthening Qualcomm's position and expanding its influence in this technologically advanced market.

    St Liew - President, & Sea (Taiwan)

    St Liew, the President, & Sea (Taiwan) at Qualcomm, directs the company's extensive operations and strategic initiatives across Southeast Asia and Taiwan. This executive is pivotal in expanding Qualcomm's market reach and solidifying its leadership in the region's dynamic technology landscape. St Liew oversees the implementation of advanced wireless technologies and semiconductor solutions, driving business development and customer engagement. The President, & Sea (Taiwan) ensures that Qualcomm's commitment to innovation aligns with regional market needs, fostering growth and technological advancement. Liew's leadership is crucial for navigating diverse market conditions and maximizing Qualcomm's impact across these key Asian territories.

    Sanam Chawla - Chief of Staff

    Sanam Chawla, the Chief of Staff at Qualcomm, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across key departments. This leadership role involves coordinating executive priorities and ensuring seamless execution of company-wide projects. Sanam Chawla drives alignment between departmental goals and the overarching corporate strategy, focusing on optimizing resource allocation and streamlining workflows. The Chief of Staff ensures that critical business objectives are met by fostering collaboration among leadership teams and facilitating effective communication channels. This position is pivotal in translating high-level directives into actionable plans, thereby enhancing Qualcomm's market position in next-generation wireless technologies. The focus remains on driving operational excellence and supporting the company's commitment to innovation in the global semiconductor market.

    Baaziz Achour - Chief Technology Officer

    Baaziz Achour, the Chief Technology Officer at Qualcomm, architects the company's technological vision and innovation roadmap. This executive spearheads research and development efforts, driving advancements in 3G, 4G, and future wireless technologies. Baaziz Achour oversees the engineering teams responsible for creating groundbreaking semiconductor solutions and evolving digital communication systems. The Chief Technology Officer ensures that Qualcomm maintains its leadership in pioneering new standards and expanding the possibilities of mobile connectivity. This role is critical in translating complex technical challenges into market-leading products and services, directly impacting Qualcomm's ability to connect people globally. Achour's leadership guides the development of technologies that define the future of digital interaction and information access.

    Brad Nolte - Director, Operations & To Qcom's Chief of Staff & Supply Chain Chief & Operations Officer

    Brad Nolte, the Director, Operations & To Qcom's Chief of Staff & Supply Chain Chief & Operations Officer at Qualcomm, manages critical operational and supply chain functions. This executive oversees the intricate logistics and operational frameworks that support Qualcomm's global product delivery. Brad Nolte ensures the efficiency and resilience of the supply chain, directly impacting the availability of Qualcomm's advanced wireless technologies. The Director, Operations & To Qcom's Chief of Staff & Supply Chain Chief & Operations Officer plays a key part in optimizing manufacturing processes and distribution networks. Nolte's leadership is essential for maintaining Qualcomm's competitive edge by ensuring seamless operations and timely market access for its innovative semiconductor products.

    Donald McGuire - Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer

    Donald McGuire, the Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer at Qualcomm, drives the company's global marketing strategy and brand positioning. This executive oversees all marketing initiatives, including product launches, digital campaigns, and market development, to enhance Qualcomm's presence in the wireless technology sector. Donald McGuire leads the teams responsible for communicating the value of Qualcomm's innovations to customers and partners worldwide. The Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer ensures that marketing efforts effectively support sales objectives and reinforce Qualcomm's leadership in 3G, 4G, and next-generation wireless technologies. McGuire's strategic direction is crucial for expanding market share and solidifying Qualcomm's reputation for pioneering advancements.
    Donald McGuire

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Qualcomm Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Qualcomm?
    Qualcomm is led by Aleeza Lawson (Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of), along with executives such as Brandon Cheung (Deputy Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of) and Akash Palkhiwala (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Qualcomm’s executive team?
    The executive team of Qualcomm includes leaders such as Aleeza Lawson (Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of), Brandon Cheung (Deputy Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of), Akash Palkhiwala (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Qualcomm have?
    Qualcomm has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Qualcomm’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Qualcomm includes roles such as Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of, Deputy Chief of Staff & Chief Executive Officer, Office of, Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff To the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, VP & President, QC Japan.