The Future Starts Here: Why I’m Energized to Lead Aras

Today marks my second day as CEO of Aras — and I couldn’t be more exhilarated to take on this role. For more than 20 years, I’ve been part of the Aras community: first as a partner at Minerva, and for the last three and a half years helping to expand Aras across EMEA and the globe. In many ways, I feel like I’ve grown up with this community, and couldn’t be more excited that I have the privilege of leading it.

I am fortunate to be succeeding Roque Martin, who has guided Aras with steady leadership over the past four years. Under his direction, we built a world-class organizational foundation that positions us well for the next phase of growth. I also want to thank our board, including GI Partners, Jim Cashman, Tony Affuso, and especially Peter Schroer. As Aras’ founder and first CEO, Peter has been a mentor throughout my career, and I’m honored to carry forward his vision of disrupting the PLM industry.

The timing could not be more exciting. PLM is at an inflection point. The challenges manufacturers face — from managing product complexity to leveraging data across the lifecycle — demand new ways of thinking. Aras was ahead of its time in pioneering an open, adaptable platform built on the digital thread. Today, that foundation is exactly what the industry needs in the age of AI.

As we embrace this opportunity, our north star will remain clear: staying relentlessly customer-centric while putting AI at the core of our growth strategy. I’m also deeply inspired by the opportunity to work alongside such talented colleagues at Aras — a team whose creativity, expertise, and dedication make all the difference. Together, we will lean into the disruptive spirit that defines Aras and reimagine what’s possible for the future of PLM.

Over the coming months, I look forward to connecting with as many of you as possible — customers, partners, and employees alike. I’ll be at Aras Connect Osaka in two weeks, followed by Frankfurt, Paris, and Stockholm later this fall. Our best ideas emerge in these conversations, and I can’t wait to hear your perspectives.

Thank you for your trust and support. The next chapter for Aras starts now, and I’m thrilled to take this journey with all of you.