Wipro Ltd. on Monday said it appointed Srini Pallia as CEO and managing director of the East Brunswick-based technology services and consulting company, effective immediately. Pallia succeeds Thierry Delaporte, who, after spearheading a significant transformation at Wipro for the last four years, is stepping down to pursue passions outside the workplace.
Pallia has been with Wipro for over three decades and most recently served as the CEO for Americas 1, Wipro’s biggest and fastest growing strategic market.
“Srini is an ideal leader to lead Wipro at this pivotal moment for our company and industry. Over the 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 client-centric approach, growth mindset, strong execution focus and his commitment to Wipro’s values, make him the perfect fit as we enter the next chapter of growth and profitability,” Rishad Premji, chairman of Wipro, said.
In a news release, Premji said the company is better positioned as a result of Delaporte’s leadership and through the business structure, partnerships and overall improved efficiency, Pallia has a strong foundation to build upon.
Pallia joined Wipro in 1992 and has held many leadership positions, including president of Wipro’s Consumer Business Unit and global head of Business Application Services. Pallia brings to the CEO role extensive institutional and industry knowledge, as well as a strong track record of leadership through some of the most significant technological shifts the industry has seen.
Commenting on his appointment, Pallia said: “Wipro is one of those rare companies that combines profit with purpose, and I am truly honored to have been chosen to lead this iconic institution. I am excited to build on the strong foundation established by Thierry and lead Wipro on its next growth trajectory.”
Pallia holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s in management studies from Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. He graduated from Harvard Business School’s Leading Global Businesses executive program, and the Advanced Leadership Program at McGill Executive Institute.
Delaporte will continue until the end of May, working closely with Pallia to ensure a smooth transition. Pallia will be based in New Jersey and report to Premji.