Dr Vishal Sikka, previously SAP’s member of the executive board: products and innovation, is to take over the position as CEO of Infosys tomorrow (14 June).
Infosys is a global consulting, technology, and outsourcing solutions company, operating in more than 30 countries.
It reported revenues of $8,25-billion for the 2014 financial year and employs about 160 000 people
According to Tom Reuner, principal analyst at Ovum, “This is a watershed moment for the company. Sikka will be the first CEO that is neither part of the founding generation nor an insider from Infosys.”
The announcement comes after a string of high profile resignations of senior executives, many of them had been touted as potential successor to the current CEO S.D Shibulal, that have led to perceptions of an overbearing influence of the executive chairman Narayana Murty who Shibulal succeeded.
Reuner adds: “Vishal Sikka was highly regarding within SAP and his remit was to foster innovation. This mind-set could be conducive to lead Infosys back to its past glory. Even though this will be his first appointment as CEO, Sikka combines the cultural affinity to the Indian corporate culture with vast experience in the global marketplace.
“In the end much of his success will depend on how he will work with Murthy who, despite the intention to step down will remain a dominating figure at the helm of Infosys – as such there will be more surprises.
“Sikka’s task is a daunting one: To lead the erstwhile poster boy for the success of the Indian IT sector back to its former glory. We envisage a bumpy road ahead for Sikka.”
Commenting on his appointment, Dr Sikka says: “I am honoured to lead Infosys, an iconic company built by pioneers in the technology industry. I look forward to working with and learning from talented Infoscions around the world. Computing technology is reshaping every industry across every walk of life.
“We, at Infosys, have a unique opportunity to deliver breakthrough solutions that will bring greater value to our clients, employees, investors and other stakeholders.”
