WiseTech Global names Zubin Appoo as new Chief Executive

WiseTech Global has appointed Zubin Appoo as Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect, ending an interim leadership period at the logistics software group.

Appoo succeeds Andrew Cartledge, who has served as Interim CEO since October 2024. Cartledge will remain employed until his planned retirement at the end of calendar 2025.

The board selected Appoo following an internal and external search. He will report directly to the board and be responsible for operational performance and execution, including operations, people and culture, product delivery, and commercial performance.

Under WiseTech's governance model, co-founder Richard White remains Executive Chair, with the CEO accountable to the board for day-to-day leadership. Appoo will work with White on long-term product direction, innovation, and strategic investment.

Return to WiseTech

Appoo worked at WiseTech from 2004 to 2018. During that time, he worked closely with White and contributed to the company's growth strategy, the board said.

He recently rejoined as Chief of Staff, working with senior leaders and development teams, and engaging with customers and investors.

Outside WiseTech, Appoo has held executive roles across several technology-focused businesses, including Chief Technology Officer at InLoop, Flexischools, and HICAPS (part of National Australia Bank), and Chief Executive Officer at Find a Carer.

WiseTech develops and supplies software used by logistics companies. Its CargoWise application suite is used across freight forwarding and third-party logistics networks. The customer base includes more than 16,500 logistics companies across 195 countries, including many of the largest global freight forwarders and third-party logistics providers.

Board view

The appointment follows investor feedback gathered through a board-commissioned engagement survey earlier this year. The survey highlighted the importance of software and product development skills, as well as knowledge of the company's products and markets.

Lead Independent Director Andrew Harrison said: "Zubin's appointment follows an internal and external process which considered a number of qualified candidates. We're pleased to welcome Zubin to his new role as WiseTech's Chief Executive Officer. 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 added: "In appointing Zubin, the Board sought a leader who could seamlessly partner with our Co-Founder and Executive Chair, 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."

Chair's comments

White said the CEO transition is part of a broader succession plan and described Appoo as well placed to lead the next stage of the business.

"As WiseTech 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," said Richard White, Executive Chair, WiseTech Global.

White also cited Appoo's work since returning to the group: "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. His extensive prior experience at WiseTech, and his performance since rejoining prove he is able to lead WiseTech. The Board, senior leadership team and I personally look forward to working with Zubin to accelerate value creation for WiseTech shareholders, customers and staff," said White.

Contract terms

WiseTech set Appoo's fixed remuneration at AUD $700,000 a year, excluding superannuation. The package includes an equity grant valued at AUD $700,000 a year, delivered as share rights.

His performance incentive opportunity is up to AUD $700,000 a year, also delivered as share rights, with a further stretch incentive of up to AUD $350,000 a year on the same basis.

His employment agreement is ongoing and can be terminated by either party with 12 months' notice, subject to provisions for termination without notice in certain circumstances. It also includes 12-month post-employment non-compete and non-solicitation restraints.

Interim CEO transition

Cartledge joined WiseTech in 2015 and has served as CFO and Interim CEO. Under the new arrangements, he will remain employed while working on projects that draw on his experience and will be available to support the handover.

Harrison said: "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. 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."

Appoo said: "I'm honored to be appointed CEO and appreciate the Board's trust in my abilities. I am a strong believer in WiseTech, and have been a shareholder since 2005. I've been a part of, and witnessed, the immense impact WiseTech continues to have on the global logistics industry since its inception more than 30 years ago. I'm looking forward to working together with the Board, the strong senior leadership team including Richard, and the wider WiseTech family, as we drive long-term growth and expand our vision to be the operating system for global trade and logistics."