WiseTech's CEO Search: A Make-or-Break Moment for Investors?
5min read 
Investors in WiseTech Global (WISE.AX) are at a crossroads. The logistics software giant, once a darling of the ASX, now faces a high-stakes leadership transition that could redefine its future. With the clock ticking toward its November 2025 AGM, the company has promised to name a permanent CEO to replace founder Richard White—but delays, boardroom tensions, and lingering controversies threaten to keep shareholders on edge. Let’s dive into what this means for your portfolio.
The CEO Vacuum: A Recipe for Volatility
WiseTech’s interim CEO, Andrew Cartledge, has kept the ship afloat since October 2024. The former CFO’s AU$1.7M salary and equity incentives signal his critical role, but the market wants more: a proven leader to steer WiseTech out of its governance-related slump. shows a steep decline, with shares down roughly 60% since early 2023. Investors are asking: Can Cartledge’s interim success translate into long-term stability, or is the company’s future too tied to White’s shadow?
White’s 10-year contract as executive chair and chief innovation officer has raised eyebrows. While his “product-led innovation strategy” is central to WiseTech’s growth, his prior scandals and the exodus of four directors in 2025 suggest unresolved governance issues. The board’s addition of tech-savvy directors like Michael Gregg is a step forward, but tensions persist.
A Boardroom Chess Match with High Stakes
The leadership transition isn’t just about picking a CEO—it’s about balancing influence. White’s entrenched role could deter candidates who fear he’ll micromanage, while shareholders demand fresh perspectives. Meanwhile, key executives like CTO Brett Shearer and Head of Product John Pritchard are betting on WiseTech’s tech edge. Their innovations in supply chain software have driven revenue growth of 15% annually over the past decade, even amid the CEO chaos.
But here’s the rub: reveals that while WiseTech still outperforms, its growth has slowed. Investors need confidence that a new CEO can reignite expansion without White’s controversial hand.
Why This Matters for Your Portfolio
The stakes are enormous. WiseTech’s market cap has plummeted from AU$25 billion to just over AU$10 billion since 2021, reflecting investor skepticism. Yet, its core business remains strong: its CargoWise platform serves 25,000 customers in 150 countries, with recurring revenue streams. A credible CEO could unlock value by accelerating mergers and acquisitions (via Chief Execution Officer Vlad Bilanovsky’s team) and calming governance fears.
But if the board drags its feet—or picks a candidate perceived as a White puppet—the stock could sink further. show muted expectations, with many predicting a slow rebound unless leadership clarity arrives.
The Bottom Line: Proceed with Caution—and Timing
WiseTech isn’t dead yet, but its revival hinges on this CEO decision. Here’s what investors should watch:
1. The November AGM Deadline: Will the board commit to a candidate aligned with modern governance, or will White’s influence stifle progress?
2. Cartledge’s Future: Will he stay beyond 2025? His interim success (evidenced by stable cash flows and M&A wins) might make him a contender.
3. Market Reaction: A strong CEO announcement could spark a short-covering rally, but only sustained execution will rebuild trust.
For now, WiseTech is a hold for most investors. If you’re bullish, consider a small position ahead of the AGM—ready to add if the CEO choice signals genuine change. But if delays continue, or White’s grip tightens, this could be a trap. The board has one shot to prove this isn’t just a “legacy company” clinging to the past.
In the end, WiseTech’s story is a reminder: in tech, innovation without integrity—or leadership without vision—is a recipe for disaster. Let’s hope this time, they get it right.
