Applied Materials Names Mark Walker to Lead Community Affairs Organization

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Applied Materials, Inc., a global nanomanufacturing technology leader dedicated to social responsibility, today announced it named Mark Walker to be managing director of Global Community Affairs, where he will be responsible for the company’s worldwide philanthropic efforts and serve as executive director of the Applied Materials Foundation. Applied Materials, a contributor to education, civic development and the arts, has a long history of improving people’s lives and helping to strengthen the communities where it does business.

Walker will join the company in January 2008 from United Way Silicon Valley, where he has served as president and CEO since 2002, leading the organization’s strategic planning, fundraising and leadership giving, and fund distribution activities. Under his direction, United Way transitioned from a traditional fundraising organization to a dynamic community solutions provider focused on measurable results. Walker worked closely with the United Way Silicon Valley Board of Directors to develop a new comprehensive strategic plan, and implemented rigorous accountability and transparency policies and processes that have restored financial stability to United Way.

“Having worked in Silicon Valley for many years, I have seen Applied Materials’ commitment and impact in our community first-hand,” said Walker. “I feel confident United Way Silicon Valley is in a solid financial position and moving in the right direction, so when this great opportunity arose to join Applied, I was excited at this possibility.”

“Mark has made a tremendous contribution at United Way, has extensive community and business experience, and we are pleased to welcome him to Applied,” said Joe Pon, vice president, Corporate Affairs, Applied Materials. “Applied has long believed in the importance of making a strong positive social contribution in our local communities, and Mark will bring new strategic focus to our employee involvement, philanthropy and corporate giving programs.”

Walker holds bachelor of arts degrees in business administration and economics from Drury University in Springfield, Missouri. Prior to joining United Way Silicon Valley, he served as general manager for external affairs at SBC Communications/Pacific Bell and area manager for external affairs and community relations at Southwestern Bell Telephone Company. Walker serves on several boards, including O’Connor Hospital, the Center for Excellence in Nonprofits, and the advisory board for Junior League of San Jose. He is a founding board member of the San Jose Police Foundation and founding board member and president of United Ways of California.

Applied Materials, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMAT) is the global leader in Nanomanufacturing Technology™ solutions with a broad portfolio of innovative equipment, services and software products for the fabrication of semiconductor chips, flat panel displays, solar photovoltaic cells, flexible electronics and energy efficient glass. At Applied Materials, we apply Nanomanufacturing Technology to improve the way people live. Learn more at www.appliedmaterials.com.