Wipro's Bet On Srini Pallia Also A Test For Rishad Premji

Growth pangs cut short Thierry Delaporte’s Wipro run. Can Pallia take stock and get the company back on track?

- RUKMINI RAO

IN THE EVENING of April 6, Bengaluru-headquartered Wipro Technologies announced the resignation of Thierry Delaporte, naming Wipro veteran and CEO of its U.S. operations, Srini Pallia, as the next CEO and MD with immediate effect. Srini was elevated as CEO for the Americas in a business rejig last year.

“Srini is an ideal leader at this pivotal moment for our company and industry. Over past four years, Wipro has undergone a major transformation under the most challenging external conditions. Srini has been an integral part of this journey. His clientcentric approach, growth mindset, strong execution focus and commitment to Wipro’s values make him the perfect fit as we enter the next chapter of growth and profitability. Thierry will continue to be a part of the organisation until the end of May,” Rishad Premji, executive chairman, Wipro, said while announcing the decision.

Industry experts, however, feel the writing was on the wall for Thierry. His departure comes well ahead of time; his five-year term was to end on July 2025. This is the second time under Rishad’s chairmanship that a CEO’s tenure has been cut short.

WIPRO’S TROUBLES