WiseTech Global Chairman Richard White Steps Down Amid Allegations

Richard White, the co-founder and executive chairman of Australian logistics software company WiseTech Global, is stepping down from his role. The departure follows allegations that White exploited a woman's immigration status and financial insecurity for sex.

The Australian Federal Police's human exploitation task force initiated an investigation into White earlier this year after a complaint was filed by a former executive from Kyckr, another company White controls. White has denied the allegations, stating that the claims have become an unnecessary distraction for WiseTech.

Media reports from last year indicated that White allegedly pressured Caroline Heidemann, a Brazilian woman who previously worked as a cleaner at WiseTech, into a sexual relationship by leveraging his influence. The allegations also include submitting false information as part of her visa application. Heidemann had previously raised similar claims before reaching a settlement with White.

Despite the allegations, shares of WiseTech, which provides software for managing and streamlining logistics, saw an increase of as much as 10.6% on the news of White's resignation, reaching nearly $27 USD per share. However, the company's valuation has significantly decreased from its peak, falling from over $40 billion in July 2025 to less than $13 billion by Tuesday, impacted by previous conduct scandals and threats from artificial intelligence.

White had previously relinquished his CEO role in 2024 amidst separate revelations about his personal life, including accusations from multiple women alleging he exchanged housing and business investments for sexual favors. A former female WiseTech director also alleged instances of bullying and intimidation by White, though a commissioned review later cleared him of these specific claims. He was reinstated as executive chair in February 2025, a move that preceded the resignation of four directors.

WiseTech has also been contending with industry pressures from artificial intelligence, leading to the layoff of approximately 30% of its workforce in May. The company announced the appointment of Raelene Murphy as independent chair. Murphy, who joined the board earlier this year and served as lead independent director, expressed support for White, stating her personal experience working with him is "totally at odds with media reports."

White is expected to continue contributing to WiseTech's growth strategy in his capacity as chief innovation officer.