Ultra Clean Holdings Appoints New CEO to Drive Semiconductor Growth and Innovation

Ultra Clean Holdings Welcomes New Leadership to Propel Growth in Semiconductor Sector

Ultra Clean Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: UCT), a company headquartered in Hayward, California, recently announces the appointment of James Xiao as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective September 2, 2025. The Board of Directors expresses strong support for Mr. Xiao's leadership, emphasizing his extensive experience and strategic insights within the semiconductor capital equipment industry. With a proven track record of leading multi-billion-dollar growth initiatives, Mr. Xiao is expected to bring transformative operational strategies to Ultra Clean, enhancing its performance in a highly competitive market. Chairman Clarence Granger highlights Mr. Xiao's exceptional capability to drive operational excellence and improve margins through strategic innovations.

Mr. Xiao's background includes over 20 years of experience in the semiconductor, solar, and display industries, with notable leadership positions at Applied Materials. His tenure at Applied Materials is marked by remarkable annual growth within various business units, showcasing his ability to effectively navigate complex operational landscapes. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics from Dalian University of Technology and an MBA from Indiana University's Kelley School of Business, supplemented by executive leadership training at Stanford University. This blend of technical and managerial expertise positions Mr. Xiao to lead Ultra Clean Holdings towards significant advancements in the semiconductor market.

As Ultra Clean Holdings specializes in developing critical subsystems, components, and ultra-high purity cleaning and analytical services for the semiconductor industry, Mr. Xiao’s appointment signifies a pivotal moment for the company. UCT's Products Division focuses on integrated outsourced solutions and high-precision manufacturing, while the Services Division emphasizes tool chamber parts cleaning and micro-contamination analytical services. With Mr. Xiao at the helm, the company aims to leverage his leadership to further accelerate growth and innovation in these areas, ultimately solidifying its position in the market.

In a separate announcement, Ultra Clean Holdings appoints Chris Cook as its Chief Business Officer, effective immediately. Previously serving as the President of the Products Division, Cook has played a crucial role in expanding the company’s product offerings and enhancing customer relationships. His 28 years of experience in the semiconductor sector, combined with a focus on digital transformation and customer experience enhancements, positions him to lead UCT's commercial strategy effectively.

These leadership changes reflect Ultra Clean Holdings' commitment to driving innovation and growth within the semiconductor industry, as the company prepares for an evolving market landscape. For more information, visit www.uct.com.