A message from our founder: Our next chapter
Dear Freshworks Kudumba,
As I write to you today, I'm filled with many emotions. The past 14 years have been an incredible journey, one that has seen Freshworks grow from a fledgling startup in Chennai into the global SaaS company that we are today. I’m incredibly proud that we are the first Indian SaaS company listed on Nasdaq. We’re a true friend to more than 67,000 customers worldwide, and our global Kudumba now has over 4,900 talented members. This journey, however, would not have been possible without each of you—coming in and making Freshworks a little bit better every day.
Today, I am announcing a new chapter in our company's story and my career. I have decided to step down as CEO of Freshworks and transition into the role of Executive Chairman. This decision was not made lightly and comes with a deep belief in our collective vision and the future of our company.
I am thrilled to announce that Dennis Woodside, our President, will be our new CEO.
A couple of years ago, I started talking with our board about my longer-term plans for Freshworks. I shared that when the time is right, I would like to shift my focus to our long-term product vision and invest in our presence in India. These are areas where I get the most energy and where I’m also playing to my strengths.
When I recruited Dennis to Freshworks, my hope was that he would eventually succeed me, and that we would work together to make a thoughtful and smooth transition, one that keeps the needs of our customers and employees front and center.
We have worked together for more than 18 months now, and watching Dennis gain a deep understanding of the Freshworks business, his love and admiration of our work and people in India, his ability to attract top talent and build world-class teams, and the operational excellence that he brings to Freshworks make me confident that he is the right leader to take on the CEO role.
Freshworks is my baby, and over the years I have seen her grow—as a toddler trying to walk, a child growing really fast, and a teenager growing stronger. The emotions running through my mind are similar to a father experiencing his beloved daughter’s marriage, happy and sad at the same time, knowing fully well that she has found the right one and is going to accomplish greater things in life.
As I pass the baton to Dennis and move into my new seat as Executive Chairman, I look forward to continuing to serve Freshworks, focusing on our long-term product vision and AI, spending more time with our teams in India, and being a trusted advisor to Dennis. Our mission remains unchanged, and our future is bright. The road ahead is filled with limitless possibilities, and I am excited to see where Dennis' leadership takes us.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Your hard work, commitment, and belief in what we do have shaped Freshworks into who we are today. As we move forward, I ask that you extend the same support, enthusiasm, love, and dedication to Dennis as you have to me over the years.
Together, we have built a remarkable company, and together, we will continue to build an even brighter future. Here’s to new beginnings, to continued success, and to writing the next chapter in our incredible story.
With heartfelt thanks and unbridled optimism for what's to come,
G
Executive Chairman (and forever part of the Freshworks Kudumba)
