Meta-backed Scale AI appoints former Google executive Francis DeSouza as CEO

DeSouza will lead Scale AI from August 10, bringing decades of enterprise technology experience as the company accelerates expansion of its AI data platform, enterprise applications and global customer base.

Meta-backed artificial intelligence company Scale AI has appointed former Google Cloud executive Francis DeSouza as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective August 10, as the company strengthens its leadership team to support the next phase of growth in AI data and enterprise applications.

DeSouza will take over from Jason Droege, who has served as interim CEO since June last year. According to the company, Droege will work closely with the incoming chief executive during the transition period to ensure leadership continuity.

Founded by Alexandr Wang, Scale AI has established itself as a key provider of data infrastructure used to train advanced AI models while also delivering AI-powered solutions for enterprises and government organisations. Wang moved to Meta last year to serve as the company's Chief AI Officer, marking a significant leadership shift for the AI startup.

Veteran technology leader takes charge

DeSouza brings more than three decades of leadership experience across cloud computing, cybersecurity and life sciences. Before joining Scale AI, he served as Chief Operating Officer and President of Security Products at Google Cloud, where he oversaw key enterprise security initiatives.

Earlier, he led genomics company Illumina as President and Chief Executive Officer, guiding the business through a period of international expansion and revenue growth. During his tenure, the company expanded its global presence to more than 150 countries while annual revenue surpassed $4.5 billion.

His earlier career also includes senior leadership roles at cybersecurity firm Symantec, along with founding two technology startups that were later acquired by Microsoft and Symantec. DeSouza holds bachelor's and master's degrees in electrical engineering and computer science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Focus on enterprise AI growth

The leadership appointment comes as Scale AI continues to broaden its presence in the enterprise AI market. The company recently added global organisations including BP and Mayo Clinic to its customer portfolio while expanding AI projects for government agencies in the United States and other international markets.

With growing demand for AI infrastructure and enterprise-ready applications, DeSouza is expected to lead Scale AI's efforts to expand its commercial business, strengthen customer relationships and accelerate innovation in AI solutions for businesses and the public sector.