Major Leadership Changes and Acquisitions in Tech Industry

In a significant reshuffle within the tech industry, several key appointments and acquisitions have been announced, highlighting the dynamic nature of the Pacific Northwest's tech landscape. Notable moves include the appointment of F5's first chief digital officer and the acquisition of a Seattle-area EV charging startup.

Key Takeaways

• F5 Appoints First Chief Digital Officer: Alvina Antar, previously with Okta, takes on the role to lead F5's transformation towards a software and subscription model.

• Acquisition of FlexCharging: FlexEnergi, a subsidiary of Accurant International, has acquired FlexCharging, enhancing its platform for smart EV charging.

• New Entrepreneur-in-Residence at UW: Babu Jain joins the Washington Clean Energy Testbeds to support clean energy innovations.

• Leadership Changes in Utilities Commission: Brian Rybarik is appointed to lead the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission.

• New Chief People Officer at Perkins Coie: Anthony Shannon steps into the role at the Seattle-based law firm.

• Executive Director for Budget and Policy Center: Eli Taylor Goss takes the helm at the Washington State Budget and Policy Center.

F5's Digital Transformation

F5 Networks, a leader in application services and security, has appointed Alvina Antar as its first chief digital officer. Antar, who previously served as the chief information officer at Okta, brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at Zuora and Dell. Her focus will be on steering F5's transition from hardware to a more software-centric and subscription-based model, emphasizing a data and AI-first approach.

FlexCharging Acquisition

In a strategic move, FlexEnergi has acquired FlexCharging, a startup founded by former Microsoft engineer Brian Grunkemeyer. This acquisition aims to integrate FlexCharging's technology into FlexEnergi's platform, which is dedicated to optimizing electrical grid operations. The deal, which follows a successful Series A funding round for FlexCharging, positions the combined entity to lead in smart EV charging solutions.

New Entrepreneur-in-Residence at UW

The Washington Clean Energy Testbeds at the University of Washington has welcomed Babu Jain as its newest entrepreneur-in-residence. Jain, founder and CEO of Navia Energy, will leverage his extensive experience in renewable technology to assist startups in scaling their innovations and securing funding. His role is expected to significantly benefit the clean energy sector in the region.

Leadership in Utilities and Transportation

Governor Bob Ferguson has appointed Brian Rybarik to head the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission. Rybarik, who previously worked at Microsoft, will oversee the regulation of utility and transportation services in Washington, ensuring they meet safety, reliability, and affordability standards.

Human Resources Leadership at Perkins Coie

Perkins Coie, a prominent law firm based in Seattle, has appointed Anthony Shannon as its new chief people officer. Shannon, who has over six years of experience at Kobre & Kim, will manage the firm's human resources operations from its Washington, D.C. office, focusing on enhancing employee engagement and organizational culture.

New Executive Director for Budget and Policy Center

Eli Taylor Goss has been named the executive director of the Washington State Budget and Policy Center. This nonprofit organization plays a crucial role in researching and advocating for economic issues, including taxation, immigration, and education policies. Goss's leadership is expected to drive impactful initiatives in these areas.

The recent changes and acquisitions in the tech industry reflect a vibrant and evolving landscape, with companies and leaders adapting to new challenges and opportunities in the market.

Sources

• Tech Moves: F5's first chief digital officer; Seattle-area EV charging startup acquired; and more – GeekWire, GeekWire.