Intel Corp. Chief Executive Brian Krzanich’s abrupt resignation this week creates a quandary for the chip maker’s board: Pick a successor from a thin bench of internal candidates, or turn the storied $243 billion company over to an outsider for the first time in its 50-year history.
Mr. Krzanich, who resigned Wednesday for violating company policy by having a relationship with a co-worker, had no clear successor. It has been years since the company has had a president or operating chief, stepping stones for some previous...