Girish Mathrubootham, the visionary founder of Freshworks, has announced his decision to step down as executive chairman of the company effective December 1, 2025. This marks the end of a remarkable 15-year journey during which he transformed Freshworks from a nascent startup into a prominent player in the software-as-a-service (SaaS) industry. His departure is not merely a resignation; it signifies a pivotal moment for both Mathrubootham and Freshworks as they embark on new chapters.
Founded in 2010, Freshworks quickly gained traction by offering innovative customer engagement solutions that catered to businesses of all sizes. Under Mathrubootham’s leadership, the company achieved significant milestones, including its historic listing on the Nasdaq in 2021. This achievement made Freshworks one of the first Indian SaaS companies to go public in the United States, a testament to the growing influence of Indian tech firms on the global stage.
Mathrubootham’s decision to leave Freshworks stems from his desire to focus full-time on Together Fund, a venture capital firm he co-founded in 2021 alongside Manav Garg of Eka Software and Shubham Gupta, formerly of Matrix Partners India. The Together Fund, which manages over $200 million, positions itself as India’s first operator-led, AI-first venture capital firm, specifically targeting opportunities across the US-India corridor. This strategic focus reflects a broader trend in the venture capital landscape, where operators with firsthand experience are increasingly sought after for their insights and expertise.
In a statement regarding his departure, Mathrubootham emphasized that his resignation was not prompted by any disagreements related to the company’s operations, policies, or practices. Instead, it is a calculated move to dedicate his time and energy to nurturing the Together Fund and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs. He expressed gratitude for the support he received from the Freshworks team and the board throughout his tenure, highlighting the collaborative spirit that has been a hallmark of the company’s culture.
As part of the transition plan, the Freshworks board has appointed Roxanne Austin, the lead independent director, as chairperson effective December 1, 2025. Austin brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served on the boards of several high-profile companies, including CrowdStrike, Verizon, and AbbVie. Her extensive background in corporate governance and executive leadership positions her well to guide Freshworks through this transitional phase. Until Mathrubootham officially steps down, he will work closely with Austin to ensure a seamless handover of responsibilities.
The timing of Mathrubootham’s exit is particularly noteworthy as Freshworks is currently undergoing an AI-led transformation. In the second quarter of 2025, the company reported revenue of $204.7 million, reflecting an 18% increase year-over-year. Additionally, Freshworks successfully narrowed its net loss by an impressive 91%, bringing it down to $1.7 million. These financial results underscore the company’s resilience and adaptability in a rapidly evolving market, driven in part by its commitment to integrating artificial intelligence into its product offerings.
Freshworks’ AI-led transformation is not just about enhancing existing products; it represents a fundamental shift in how the company approaches customer engagement. By leveraging AI technologies, Freshworks aims to provide businesses with deeper insights into customer behavior, enabling them to deliver more personalized and effective interactions. This strategic pivot aligns with broader industry trends, where AI is increasingly seen as a critical driver of innovation and competitive advantage.
As Mathrubootham prepares to embark on his new venture with Together Fund, he carries with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that will undoubtedly benefit the startups and entrepreneurs he supports. The Together Fund’s focus on the US-India corridor reflects a growing recognition of the potential for collaboration between these two dynamic markets. With India’s burgeoning tech ecosystem and the established infrastructure of Silicon Valley, there are ample opportunities for innovative companies to thrive.
The venture capital landscape is evolving, and Mathrubootham’s approach with Together Fund exemplifies a shift towards operator-led investing. Investors with operational experience can offer valuable insights and mentorship to founders, helping them navigate the challenges of building successful businesses. This model not only benefits the startups but also fosters a more vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In conclusion, Girish Mathrubootham’s decision to step down as executive chairman of Freshworks marks a significant turning point for both him and the company. His legacy as a pioneer in the SaaS industry is firmly established, and his new focus on Together Fund promises to shape the next generation of entrepreneurs. As Freshworks continues its AI-led transformation under the leadership of Roxanne Austin, the company is poised to build on its successes and explore new horizons in the ever-evolving tech landscape. The future looks bright for both Mathrubootham and Freshworks, as they embark on their respective journeys with renewed purpose and vision.