Francis deSouza

Francis deSouza is an entrepreneur and technology executive with a career spanning more than three decades in software, cybersecurity, genomics, and artificial intelligence. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees in electrical engineering and computer science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, providing a foundation for his work across several influential technology companies.

DeSouza co-founded three companies: SynthLabs, an AI alignment company; IMlogic, an IT security company acquired by Symantec; and Flash Communications, an instant messaging company acquired by Microsoft. After the acquisition of Flash Communications, deSouza joined Microsoft, where he led the team responsible for developing the company's enterprise real-time collaboration offerings.

Following his tenure at Microsoft, deSouza founded IMlogic, serving as CEO and growing the company into a leading provider of instant messaging security before its acquisition by Symantec. At Symantec, he oversaw research, product management, engineering, customer support, and operations for the company's offerings, which generated significant revenue. He later transitioned to the life sciences sector, joining Illumina as president and subsequently serving as CEO. At Illumina, deSouza led business units and core functions responsible for developing and producing genomic sequencing products, expanding the company's operations to more than 150 countries and strengthening its position in the genomics industry. He was recognized by Fortune as a Top Businessperson of the Year.

After his time at Illumina, deSouza co-founded SynthLabs, focusing on transparent and auditable AI systems. He then joined Google Cloud, where he served as chief operating officer and president of security products, leading strategic operations and overseeing the security portfolio, including threat intelligence, consulting, and governance.

DeSouza has been named chief executive officer of Scale AI, guiding the company's growth as demand increases for enterprise and government artificial intelligence applications. Scale AI has expanded its data infrastructure and AI applications businesses, adding enterprise customers and increasing engagements with government agencies. In addition to his executive roles, deSouza serves on the board of directors of Deel Inc. and has previously served on the boards of The Walt Disney Company and Citrix Systems. His experience leading companies across cybersecurity, genomics, and AI underscores his versatility in the technology sector.