Cambridge, UK – 6th September 2024 – Darktrace plc (DARK.L), the global leader in cybersecurity AI, has announced that Poppy Gustafsson will step down from her role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with immediate effect. Jill Popelka, the current Chief Operating Officer (COO), will succeed her as CEO and join the Darktrace Board of Directors.
Jill brings over 20 years of experience leading operational best practices in fast-growing technology businesses. She has held senior positions at Accenture, Snap Inc., and SAP SuccessFactors, where she served as President. Jill joined Darktrace in January 2024 as a Non-Executive Director before becoming COO in June 2024.
In her statement, Poppy Gustafsson expressed immense pride in Darktrace's accomplishments, noting the company’s transformation into a global leader in cybersecurity and its successful expansion to nearly 10,000 customers worldwide. With Darktrace’s acquisition by Thoma Bravo nearing completion, Poppy emphasised the importance of leadership continuity and transition, expressing her confidence in Jill’s ability to guide the company through its next chapter as a privately owned entity.
Gordon Hurst, Chairman of Darktrace, praised Poppy for her exceptional leadership, which had propelled the company’s transformation from a promising startup to a high-growth cybersecurity leader. He welcomed Jill’s appointment, highlighting her deep sector expertise and leadership qualities as key to Darktrace’s ongoing success.
Jill Popelka, the incoming CEO, expressed her excitement about the company’s potential, noting that Darktrace’s AI-driven technology has never been more crucial to businesses worldwide. She also highlighted the strong talent within Darktrace, particularly the R&D teams based in Cambridge and The Hague, and reiterated her commitment to taking the company forward.
Andrew Almeida, Partner at Thoma Bravo, commended both Poppy and the Board for the seamless succession plan and expressed full support for Jill in her new role. He praised her for her dedication to scaling businesses and creating a strong sense of mission within the organisation.
The acquisition of Darktrace by Thoma Bravo is progressing as planned, with all regulatory approvals, except one foreign approval, expected by 28th September 2024. The company anticipates completing the transaction shortly thereafter.
Darktrace, founded in 2013, has revolutionised cybersecurity with its AI-powered solutions. The company now operates in 110 countries, employs over 2,400 people, and serves nearly 10,000 customers globally. Under Poppy's leadership, Darktrace grew from a promising startup to one of the UK’s most successful technology firms.
Jill Popelka’s appointment as CEO marks the beginning of a new phase in Darktrace’s journey as it continues to lead the way in the fight against cyber threats.
