The Home Depot has named Franziska “Fran” Bell, PhD, as its new EVP and Chief Technology Officer (CTO), effective April 6. Bell most recently led AI transformation as Chief Data, AI and Analytics Officer at Ford Motor Co. and has held digital technology roles at BP, Uber and Toyota.
“The Home Depot is a project retailer, and customers engage with us across multiple touch points — whether that’s online, in our aisles or increasingly, with AI,” said Ted Decker, Chair, President and CEO of The Home Depot in a statement. “Fran is a respected leader in data science and AI, and she understands the power of technology to improve the customers’ experience.”
In her new role, Bell will lead strategy, development and alignment of technology, product management, data and AI for the home improvement retailer, driving enterprise-wide integration of agentic AI and machine learning to create seamless experiences for associates, DIY and Pro customers.
“I’ve always believed the most powerful technology is the kind you don’t notice, because it’s busy behind the scenes making your life easier,” said Bell in a statement. “Joining a customer-first brand like The Home Depot is an incredible opportunity to put technology and AI to work where it matters most — helping homeowners confidently take on their first renovations or giving Pro contractors the digital tools they need to grow their businesses.”
In March 2025 The Home Depot introduced Magic Apron, a proprietary suite of Gen AI tools designed to help customers, and in March 2026 Home Depot enhanced its digital tools for Pro customers, one of several moves designed to support contractors and other building professionals.
