Freshworks founder Girish Mathrubootham to step down as Executive Chairman

Freshworks founder Girish Mathrubootham has announced that he will step down as Executive Chairman of the Nasdaq-listed software company, marking the end of a 15-year journey that began in Chennai and grew into a global SaaS success story. His exit will take effect on December 1, 2025.

In a social media post, Mathrubootham wrote, “After 15 years, I’m stepping down as Executive Chairman of Freshworks effective from December 1st 2025. What started in Chennai grew into a global SaaS company on Nasdaq — thanks to an amazing team & customers.”

He added, “Freshworks will always be Kudumba and thanks to the incredible people and culture, it’s been the journey of a lifetime.”

Freshworks confirmed this development in a company statement, adding that Roxanne Austin, currently the firm’s Lead Independent Director, will assume the role of Chair of the Board following Mathrubootham’s departure.

Just a year ago, Mathrubootham transitioned from CEO to Executive Chairman, appointing Dennis Woodside, who has held leadership roles at Dropbox and Motorola Mobility, as CEO.

Going forward, the 49-year-old entrepreneur is reportedly looking to focus on Together Fund and on backing AI-driven startups. Mathrubootham’s next chapter is clearly centered around venture funding and artificial intelligence.

According to the company’s filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Mathrubootham’s decision to retire was not the result of any disagreement on Freshworks’ operations, policies, or practices. Until his exit, he will work with Austin to ensure a smooth handover of board leadership.

Freshworks also said that effective December 1, 2025, the size of its board will be reduced to nine members, with the number of Class III directors capped at two. Austin, who has served on the Freshworks board since 2021, also holds board positions at CrowdStrike, Verizon, and AbbVie.