Freshworks Founder Girish Mathrubootham to Step Down as Executive Chairman
Girish Mathrubootham, founder of Freshworks, will step down as Executive Chairman effective December 1, 2025. Roxanne Austin, current Lead Independent Director, will succeed him as Chairperson of the Board. The company reported strong Q2 2025 results with operating revenue of ₹204.70 crore, up 17.64% year-over-year, and operating losses reduced by 79.55% to ₹9.00 crore. The transition is planned well in advance to ensure continuity in the company's operations and vision.
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Freshworks, a leading software company, is set for a significant leadership transition as founder Girish Mathrubootham announces his decision to step down from his role as Executive Chairman. The change is scheduled to take effect on December 1, 2025, marking the end of Mathrubootham's tenure at the helm of the company he founded.
Leadership Transition
Mathrubootham communicated his decision to the board on September 3, 2025, expressing his intention to focus on his role with Together Fund, a venture fund he co-founded. The board has appointed Roxanne Austin, who has served as the Lead Independent Director since May 2021, to succeed Mathrubootham as the new Chairperson of the Board.
Company Performance
The announcement comes at a time when Freshworks is showing strong financial performance. For the quarter ending June, the company reported:
| Financial Metric | Q2 2025 | Q2 2024 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Revenue | ₹204.70 crore | ₹174.00 crore | +17.64% |
| Operating Losses | ₹9.00 crore | ₹44.00 crore | -79.55% |
The significant reduction in operating losses, narrowing by nearly 80% year-over-year, indicates improved operational efficiency and a path towards profitability.
Smooth Transition
Freshworks has emphasized that this leadership change involves no operational discord or strategic disagreements. The planned transition, set to occur over a year from now, suggests a well-thought-out succession strategy aimed at ensuring continuity in the company's vision and operations.
As Freshworks prepares for this new chapter, the tech industry will be watching closely to see how the company evolves under new leadership while building on the foundation laid by its founder. The transition also highlights the growing trend of successful tech entrepreneurs stepping back from operational roles to focus on venture funding and supporting the broader startup ecosystem.
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