“We are grateful to Jim for his remarkable leadership,” Hovsepian said via a press release. “He led ANSYS’ transformation from a $50 million revenue company into the global market leader for simulation technology with nearly $1 billion in revenue, creating significant value for stockholders. On behalf of the entire Board, I thank Jim for his countless contributions and unwavering commitment to ANSYS. His decision to implement this leadership succession plan was made with much thought and consideration, and we appreciate him working with the entire Board to help identify his successor and facilitate a smooth transition. We all look forward to benefitting from his continued guidance, vision and expertise as chairman.”
Cashman said the company looks to scale to $2 billion in revenues and beyond. “I have come to know and admire Ajei as a fellow director, and I have no doubt that his outstanding leadership, unique perspective and appreciation for ANSYS’ culture, people and organization make him the right choice to serve as our next leader during this exciting time.”
Gopal is a 25-year industry veteran with management and business development experience at large software and technology companies. He has held leadership roles at companies including Symantec, Hewlett-Packard, CA Technologies and IBM, and also brings start-up experience, having co-founded ReefEdge Networks. He joined Silver Lake in April 2013 as an operating partner.
Gopal’s appointment as Cashman’s successor follows a search conducted by the ANSYS Board. The search included a review of both internal and external candidates, according to the company.
“I am honored by the opportunity to lead ANSYS,” Gopal said in a press release. “With an accelerating pace of innovation, ANSYS is on an exciting growth trajectory as it executes on its long-term plans. Jim’s vision and tremendous leadership have set a high bar, and I am committed to building on our standard of excellence and pushing the boundaries of innovation to help customers solve their most complex design challenges. I look forward to working with Jim, the Board, our leadership team, employees and customers around the globe to continue our legacy and capture the vast market opportunity ahead to drive stockholder value.”
Separately, ANSYS also announced that Robert Kocis, vice president, Worldwide Sales and Support, will depart on Oct. 1 to pursue another opportunity in the managed services industry.
For more information, visit ANSYS.
Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.
