Workday Announces CEO Transition as Co-Founder Aneel Bhusri Returns to Lead the Company's Next Chapter

Workday announced that co-founder Aneel Bhusri is returning as chief executive officer. Carl Eschenbach is stepping down as CEO and as a member of the board. The transition is effective immediately. Eschenbach will continue to support Bhusri as a strategic advisor to the CEO. Mark Hawkins, Workday vice chair and lead independent director, said that Aneel and Dave Duffield founded Workday with a belief that work could be done differently. Hawkins stated that as the company enters a defining moment shaped by AI, there is no one better than Aneel to lead. Hawkins continued that Carl stepped in at a pivotal time and helped Workday mature into a more global, disciplined organization. He strengthened the company's operational foundation while leading with integrity and heart. The board expressed gratitude for his leadership and the impact he has had on the company. Bhusri said he is deeply grateful to Carl for leading Workday through an important chapter. He added that the company is now entering one of the most pivotal moments in its history. Eschenbach noted that it has been a privilege to serve as CEO over the past three years and that he is proud of all that was achieved.