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Longstanding Darktrace CEO Poppy Gustafsson to step down

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Longstanding Darktrace CEO Poppy Gustafsson to step down

Poppy Gustafsson, the CEO of Darktrace, has announced her immediate resignation from her position. She will be succeeded by Jill Popelka, the current chief operating officer (COO) of the company, which specializes in AI-led cybersecurity.

This decision comes following Darktrace’s acquisition by US private equity firm Thoma Bravo in 2024. Gustafsson, who joined Darktrace from Autonomy and has a mathematics degree from the University of Sheffield, has been with the company since its inception. She held various roles before becoming CEO in 2016.

In a statement, Gustafsson expressed her pride in the company’s achievements and stated that it was time for her to pass the torch to Jill as Darktrace transitions into private ownership. She will continue to be involved with the company as a non-executive director.

Jill Popelka, who joined Darktrace earlier in 2024, brings a wealth of experience from her time at SAP and Snap Inc. She is excited about the future of Darktrace and its role in the cybersecurity market.

Influential on AI

Under Gustafsson’s leadership, Darktrace has become a leading technology company in the UK. She was recognized with an OBE in 2019 and named Computer Weekly’s Most Influential Woman in UK Technology in 2021. Gustafsson emphasized the importance of diverse skillsets in building a successful technology business.

Increased profile

Darktrace’s focus on AI has raised its profile in the industry, especially with the development of generative AI. Partnerships, such as the one with McLaren Formula 1 team, have further increased Darktrace’s visibility. Gustafsson’s participation in events like the AI Safety Summit demonstrates her commitment to promoting AI innovation responsibly.

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