Girish Mathrubootham steps down as CEO of Freshworks; to continue as chairman & focus on India team, AI
In a significant shift at the helm of Freshworks, Chennai-based entrepreneur Girish Mathrubootham has announced his decision to step down as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company. Taking on a new mantle, Mathrubootham will now serve as the Executive Chairman of the SaaS giant. This transition ushers in a new era for Freshworks, with President Dennis Woodside set to take over the CEO responsibilities.
Expressing his thoughts on the transition, Mathrubootham reflected on the journey of Freshworks from its humble beginnings in Chennai to becoming a global SaaS powerhouse, listed on the Nasdaq. “It wasn’t an easy decision,” he stated, emphasizing his deep belief in the company’s vision and its bright future ahead. Under his stewardship, Freshworks has not only achieved significant milestones but also established a robust footprint on the international stage.
Looking ahead, Mathrubootham outlined his focus areas in his new role. He intends to dedicate his efforts towards shaping the long-term product vision, leveraging artificial intelligence, and engaging more closely with the team in India. “These are the areas where I draw the most energy from and where I believe I can play to my strengths,” he shared, illustrating his commitment to driving innovation and growth at Freshworks.
The entrepreneur, who is 49 years old, disclosed that discussions about succession and long-term planning for Freshworks with the board had been initiated a couple of years ago. The thoughtful transition plan underscores the strategic foresight that has been a hallmark of Mathrubootham’s leadership.
With regard to his successor, Mathrubootham expressed full confidence in Woodside’s capability to steer Freshworks towards greater heights. He lauded Woodside’s proficiency in attracting top talent, building world-class teams, and emphasizing operational excellence as key attributes that make him the ideal choice for the CEO position.
In a heartfelt message, Mathrubootham shared his emotional connection with Freshworks, likening his experience to a parent witnessing their child’s growth and evolution. “Freshworks is my baby, and seeing it grow through various stages has been an emotional journey,” he remarked. His comparison of the company’s development to that of a child maturing over the years spotlighted the deep-seated affection and pride he holds for Freshworks and its accomplishments.
As Freshworks embarks on this new chapter, the legacy of innovation, customer focus, and global success that Mathrubootham has nurtured remains a guiding light for the company. With a solid foundation and a clear vision for the future, Freshworks is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and expansion under the leadership of Woodside, with Mathrubootham continuing to play a pivotal role in its journey as Executive Chairman.
