Rafi Benami to step down as head of Applied Materials Israel
After 13 years, Benami is leaving the semiconductor giant’s largest R&D hub outside the U.S.
Rafi Benami, head of Applied Materials Israel and General Manager, Process Diagnostics and Control Business at the chip giant, has informed the company of his intention to leave his position, Calcalist has learned.
Applied Materials’ operations in Israel function as the company’s Process and Diagnostic Control (PDC) division, which develops and manufactures advanced systems for chip production monitoring. These systems enable global semiconductor manufacturers to produce chips in a smarter, faster, and more efficient manner.
Today, nearly every chip produced globally goes through Applied Materials' blue-and-white technology at some stage in the production process. The company’s research and development center in Israel is its largest outside the United States. Applied currently employs approximately 2,300 people in Israel and is actively hiring for around 100 open positions. The global company has a market valuation of approximately $130 billion.
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An official statement from Applied Materials Israel read:
"In the near future, Rafi Benami is expected to step down from his role at Applied Materials, by mutual agreement and following an orderly transition. Over the course of 13 years in various leadership roles - including his final role as GM of the PDC division - Rafi led the company to growth, innovation, and significant milestones. He drove key strategic changes and laid a strong foundation for future success. We thank Rafi for his tremendous contribution, commitment, and ethical and professional leadership, and we wish him continued success in his personal and professional journey."
