Wipro’s TK Kurien steps down earlier than expected

After TCS’ Chandrasekaran, it is the turn of Wipro’s former CEO and current executive vice chairman TK Kurien to retire. He was expected to step down in March.

He will step down at the end of this month, a year after he was moved out of the CEO position.

“TK and Abid have worked together over the past 12 months to complete a smooth and effective transition. In the past year, TK and Abid have charted out a new technology roadmap and further deepened our client relationships besides scaling our big bets in automation, artificial intelligence and digital,” Chairman Azim Premji said.

Kurien is credited with laying the foundation of many of the crucial transformational programs when Wipro was facing its toughest times in its recent history.

“TK has been an integral part of the organization’s leadership for years,” Chairman Premji said.

“He has played a vital role in building and scaling many of Wipro’s successful businesses besides spearheading our transformation into a future ready organization. TK has long been a powerful voice in championing and espousing the cause of the industry in various fora around the world. I thank him and his family for his immense contribution to Wipro and wish him the very best for the next phase of his life and career.”

Wipro hired Abidali Z Neemuchwala as the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director a year ago.

“I consider myself deeply honored and privileged to have been a part of this organisation. Together, we launched and led businesses to global recognition. We have grown manifold and are today a partner of choice for several marquee names around the world. I thank my colleagues and other stakeholders for their support over the years,” said TK Kurien, Executive Vice Chairman & Member of the Board, Wipro Limited.

“It has been my privilege and honor to work closely with TK, an exceptional leader gifted with a sharp intellect and an uncanny ability to sense technology trends well ahead of time. His abiding interest in history and deep understanding of finance gives him a rare perspective beyond the technology landscape. I wish him the very best,” said Abidali Z Neemuchwala, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Wipro Ltd.