Freelancer appoints NEXTDC CEO Craig Scroggie as director

Freelancer Limited has appointed Craig Scroggie, CEO and Managing Director of NEXTDC, as a Non-Executive Director, effective 1 August 2024. Craig Scroggie joins Freelancer with considerable experience in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry, having helmed NEXTDC, a significant player in the data centre sector in Asia and Australia.

The company’s Chairman, Matt Barrie, expressed his enthusiasm for Scroggie's appointment. "We are thrilled to welcome Craig Scroggie to the Freelancer Limited Board. Craig is the man of the hour, having turned NEXTDC into a USD $10 billion technology goliath and transformed how digital services are delivered in the region. His profound understanding of the technology landscape, combined with his strategic acumen and proven leadership in building critical digital infrastructure, will be instrumental as we continue to innovate and expand our global presence," Barrie stated.

Scroggie has over 30 years of experience in the ICT domain and has held senior roles at companies including Symantec, Veritas Software, Computer Associates, EMC Corporation, and Fujitsu. Under his leadership, NEXTDC has become a pivotal entity in Australia’s digital economy, providing services such as power, security, and connectivity solutions to businesses across various sectors.

In addition to his duties at NEXTDC, Scroggie is involved in governance and academia, serving on the Board of Sovereign Cloud Holdings, and as a member of the University of Southern Queensland Business School Advisory Board. He also chairs the La Trobe University Business School Advisory Board, where he holds the title of Adjunct Professor.

Craig Scroggie commented on his new role at Freelancer, expressing excitement about contributing to the company's future growth. "I am honoured to join the Board of Freelancer Limited, a company that has fundamentally transformed the nature of work in the digital age. Freelancer's platform has empowered millions of professionals worldwide and facilitated countless business opportunities. I'm excited to leverage my experience in building robust digital infrastructure and leading technology companies to contribute to Freelancer's mission. I look forward to collaborating with the Board and management team to drive the company's next phase of growth and innovation, ensuring we continue to lead in the rapidly evolving world of work," he said.

Scroggie's industry contributions have been widely acknowledged. In 2013, he was named the University of Southern Queensland Faculty of Business & Law Alumnus of the Year. Two years later, he was inducted into the ARN ICT Industry Awards Hall of Fame, acknowledging his influence and leadership within the sector.

Freelancer Limited, which operates a leading freelancing and crowdsourcing marketplace, continues to bolster its leadership team with high-profile appointments. The company's focus on expanding its global reach and technological innovation is evident in its strategic hires and board appointments.