Scale AI appoints Google Cloud exec as new CEO (scale.com)

Scale AI has appointed Francis deSouza, former COO at Google Cloud, as its new CEO, effective August 10, 2026. This leadership change comes amid significant growth for Scale, marked by new enterprise clients such as BP and Mayo Clinic, and expanded contracts with both U.S. and international governments. Alexandr Wang, the company's founder, emphasized deSouza's extensive experience in managing complex technological businesses—an asset as organizations increasingly rely on Scale's AI solutions for critical decision-making. DeSouza's background spans over three decades in enterprise technology, including a pivotal role in scaling Google Cloud during its growth phase and leading Illumina, a major genomic data platform. His expertise aligns with Scale's dual focus on supplying foundational data for advanced AI models and developing the applications that utilize this data. As he steps into the CEO role, deSouza aims to enhance Scale's reach in both business and government sectors, capitalizing on the company's position at the intersection of AI development and real-world implementation. His vision revolves around delivering impactful AI solutions and fostering trust in AI deployments, crucial for the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.