Cybersecurity firm Darktrace has named COO Jill Popelka as its new CEO, replacing co-founder Poppy Gustafsson.
Popelka (pictured), who joined the company as a non-executive director in January 2024 and became COO in June, brings over 20 years of experience, including leadership roles at Accenture, Snap Inc., and SAP SuccessFactors.
Gordon Hurst, Chairman of Darktrace, said: "Jill is a proven and highly regarded leader in global technology businesses who has contributed immensely to the Board and more recently in her role as COO.
“With Poppy stepping down, Jill has deep sector experience, people leadership skills and energy and passion to lead Darktrace into the next stage of its journey."
Popelka steps in as Darktrace moves forward with its acquisition by Thoma Bravo, expected to close by the end of September, pending final regulatory approval.
