Wipro (WIPR.NS) has announced the resignation of Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Thierry Delaporte, effective April 6, 2024. Delaporte, who joined Wipro in 2020, will be succeeded by Srinivas Pallia, a veteran of the company with over three decades of experience.
The leadership change comes amid a turbulent period for Wipro, marked by changes in its operating model, top-level departures, and unsuccessful acquisitions.
Delaporte’s departure, originally set for July 2025, has been attributed to his desire to “pursue passions outside the workplace.” However, some critics have cited his inadequate presence with Wipro teams in India and the U.S., resulting in low morale.
Wipro is anticipated to be the only one among India’s top four IT firms to report a revenue decline in the latest fiscal year, highlighting challenges during Delaporte’s tenure.
Pallia, previously CEO for Wipro’s “Americas 1” region, will assume the role of CEO and Managing Director effective April 7, 2024. Wipro Chairman Rishad Premji commended Pallia’s client-centric approach and growth mindset, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the company towards growth and profitability.
Pallia’s immediate focus will be on talent retention, enhancing company morale, and securing significant contracts to compete with industry giants like Tata Consultancy Services and Infosys.
The leadership transition occurs amidst a challenging period for the Indian IT industry, grappling with weak client spending and economic uncertainty in key markets like the United States and Europe.
