1. Sudhakar Ramakrishna joins Five9's Board of Directors effective September 26, 2025. 2. He brings 25 years of tech leadership expertise, enhancing Five9’s strategic input. 3. Former Lead Independent Director David Welsh retires after 14 years of service. 4. Sudhakar's background includes cybersecurity and enterprise software, aiding Five9’s AI strategy.
Leadership changes can indicate strategic shifts that improve market positioning, especially in tech.
The appointment of a seasoned leader in tech aligns with growth strategies for AI.
The new board member's expertise will influence decisions crucial for long-term growth.
Five9, Inc. (NASDAQ:FIVN), provider of the Intelligent CX Platform, today announced the appointment of Sudhakar Ramakrishna to its Board of Directors (the "Board") effective September 26, 2025. The company also announced the retirement of Lead Independent Director, David Welsh, following over 14 years of service to Five9's Board.
Sudhakar brings nearly 25 years of leadership experience in the technology sector, with deep expertise in cybersecurity, enterprise software, and IT infrastructure. He currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer and President of SolarWinds Corporation, a provider of secure observability and IT management software. At SolarWinds, Sudhakar has led the company through significant technology, business model, and cybersecurity transformations.
"Sudhakar brings a rare blend of enterprise software leadership, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure expertise, and boardroom experience that will be a tremendous benefit to Five9," said Mike Burkland, Chairman and CEO of Five9. "His background in guiding global organizations through complex technology shifts, combined with his experience across healthcare, SaaS, and enterprise tech, gives him a unique perspective on scaling secure, AI-driven platforms. His strategic insights will strengthen how we harness AI to deliver smarter, more secure, and more human customer experiences."
Sudhakar will serve as a Class II director, with a term expiring at the Company's 2028 annual meeting of stockholders. He will also serve on the Nominating and Governance Committee of the Board.
David Welsh, who has served on Five9's Board of Directors since January 2011, retired from the Board on September 26, 2025. During his tenure, David served as Lead Independent Director and chaired the Nominating and Governance Committee. In connection with Mr. Welsh's resignation from the Board, the Board appointed Robert Zollars as the Lead Independent Director.
"On behalf of the Board and leadership team, I want to thank Dave Welsh for his many years of dedicated service to Five9," said Mike Burkland, Chairman and CEO of Five9. "His strategic input and thoughtful guidance have been tremendously valuable, and the impact of his leadership will continue to guide us well into the future."
About Five9
Five9 empowers organizations to create hyper-personalized and effortless AI-driven customer experiences that deliver better business outcomes. Powered by Five9 Genius AI and our people, the Five9 Intelligent CX Platform is trusted by 3,000+ customers and 1,400+ partners globally. The New CX starts here, and it's at the heart of every winning experience. For more information, visit www.five9.com.
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Five9, Inc.
Tony Righetti
SVP, Investor Relations
IR@five9.com