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Logistics software group WiseTech (ASX: WTC) shaped the early career of Zubin Appoo soon after graduating from UTS with an IT degree in the early 2000s. Today he has been appointed CEO of the $40 billion company.
Having served as WiseTech's head of innovation and technology from 2004 to 2018, including during its initial public offering (IPO) in 2016, the prodigal son returned in April this year as chief of staff and deputy chief innovation officer.
Appoo's appointment to that role was announced on the same day that co-founder Richard White recommenced employment with the group as its executive chair and chief innovation officer, following a confidential investigation into complaints over his alleged conduct.
Since then Appoo has reported directly to White, while former CFO Andrew Cartledge has been leading WiseTech as interim CEO since October 2024.
The group describes its new CEO as a "proven technology leader" with more than 20 years’ experience in leading and growing teams that deliver strategic outcomes and commercialise market-disrupting products.
The WiseTech board points to his "foundational role" in the rapid growth of WiseTech between 2004 and 2018, working directly with White in shaping the company's growth strategy.
Since his departure from the group in 2018 he has held various executive leadership roles with responsibilities across disruptive technology, innovation, people, culture, revenue and strategy, including as CTO at InLoop, Flexischools and National Australia Bank (ASX: NAB) subsidiary HICAPS, and as CEO at Find a Carer.
"Zubin’s appointment follows an internal and external process which considered a number of qualified candidates," says WiseTech lead independent director Andrew Harrison.
"He brings a strong software and product development background along with knowledge of WiseTech’s products, markets and methods – attributes that were identified as critical by shareholders in the feedback we received through the investor engagement survey commissioned by the board earlier this year."
Harrison says the board sought a leader who could seamlessly partner with Richard White, while also "operating independently and decisively as CEO".
"Zubin understands WiseTech’s DNA and ambition. With his return, we are confident in the strength of our leadership and their ability to drive long-term value for shareholders," he says.
Appoo says he is honoured to be appointed CEO, with a focus on fostering a high-performance culture with positive urgency, execution excellence and collaboration at its core, ultimately leading to shareholder value.
"WiseTech has shaped my professional life in profound ways. I spent nearly 15 years here earlier in my career building products, leading teams, driving innovation, and being part of an extraordinary growth journey," says Appoo, who has been a shareholder in the company since 2005.
"In the years since, I’ve watched proudly from afar as a shareholder and former team member, admiring the company’s continued evolution and global impact. To now return in this role is both a privilege and a responsibility I take seriously.
"Since returning to WiseTech, I’ve reconnected with many familiar faces and met many new ones. The depth of talent, commitment to innovation, and shared belief in our mission is truly energising."
White says that as the company enters the next phase of its growth trajectory, it is imperative that we have a strong succession plan in place.
"Zubin's proven leadership skills, extensive background in technology and product development, coupled with his deep understanding of WiseTech, our culture and products, as well as the logistics industry, makes him uniquely qualified to lead the WiseTech team," White says.
"Since rejoining WiseTech as Chief of Staff, Zubin has been working closely with our senior leadership team, our development teams, as well as customers, and investors.
"He has immersed himself in WiseTech’s business operations with a focus on driving innovation, value creation, and efficiencies."
Outgoing interim CEO Cartledge will remain an employee of WiseTech until his retirement - planned for the end of the year - and will be working on a number of key projects that draw on his specific skillsets
"On behalf of the board, I’d also like to thank Andrew for his leadership and commitment since joining the company in 2015, in his roles as both CFO and interim CEO," says Harrison.
"His contributions to WiseTech have been instrumental to our success, including during periods of significant change.
"His dedication as a leader to the whole WiseTech team has positioned us for future growth and we wish him well when he retires, as planned, at the end of the year."
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