Workday has announced that Co-Founder and Executive Chair Aneel Bhusri has returned as Chief Executive Officer, replacing Carl Eschenbach, who stepped down from the role and the Board and will remain a Strategic Advisor. The leadership change takes effect immediately as the company begins fiscal year 2027.
Directors said the decision reflects a shift toward an AI-driven strategy and long-term positioning. Vice Chair Mark Hawkins stated, “As we enter a defining moment shaped by AI, there is no one better than Aneel to lead this next chapter.” He also credited Eschenbach with strengthening operations and expanding the company’s reach during his tenure.
Bhusri said the transition comes at a pivotal time for enterprise technology, stating, “AI is a bigger transformation than SaaS — and it will define the next generation of market leaders,” he noted, adding he is “energized to return as CEO.” Eschenbach said he was proud of advancing operational discipline, global expansion, and early AI groundwork, and confirmed he will support the leadership team going forward. Workday expects fiscal 2026 fourth-quarter and full-year results to align with prior guidance, subject to standard review.