Pia CEO Gerwai Todd has resigned after approximately one year at the helm of the help desk automation platform, transferring leadership to an executive group. Todd, who co-founded TimeZest, a scheduling automation tool provider, will continue his role there. In a statement, Todd emphasized the importance of having a dedicated leader for Pia, stating that leading two companies was more challenging than anticipated. Pia acknowledged Todd’s contributions, including the launch of the AITriage help desk ticket offering and expanding its customer base, particularly in the United States. As part of its transition, Pia will form a growth advisory committee to guide the company’s future direction while searching for a new CEO globally.
Christian Pacheco founded Pia in March 2022, an offshoot from his Virtual IT Group, founded in April 2015. Christian is listed as Managing Director for Pia.
I had some questions… so I asked, and the Pia team replied.
First, in regards to Christian, quote “It should also be highlighted that whilst continuing in his capacity as the major investor, Christian is not involved in the day-to-day operations of Pia, with the founding exec team and shareholders continuing to be solely involved in driving the business, whom had all been a part of VITG. This includes Aron Hardy-Bardsley (Chief Technology Officer), Nic Ferraro (Chief Strategy Officer) and Terry Irons (Chief Information Officer/CISO), in addition to David Apolo (Chief Financial Officer).”
Why do we care?
I want to highlight something – dual CEO positions rarely work. First, assume you are not Elon Musk, nor is anyone else handling dual CEO roles. Based on statements, it seems Gerwai was intending to transition out at TimeZest, but that didn’t work. I have a bias of like for Gerwai, as I’ve known him for a long time.
The team there highlights the “highly competent and seasoned leadership team in place managing the daily operations of the business.”
Success will depend on maintaining operational stability, reassuring customers, and selecting a leader capable of scaling the company in a competitive and evolving market. I’m watching for that execution.