Automation consultancy Simplyai appoints John Valastro as CEO

05 December 2023 Consultancy.com.au

Homegrown automation consultancy Simplyai has appointed John Valastro as its new CEO. He has been tasked with leading the firm into its next growth phase.

John Valastro has been promoted from within the company, up until now serving as Chief Operating Officer. He steps into the shoes of Anthony Scott, who co-founded the business in 2019, and who will join Simplyai’s Board as a Non-Executive Director.

Since its inception, Simplyai has rapidly grown into one of the larger specialist automation and artificial intelligence consultancies in Australia, with over 100 staff.

Automation consultancy Simplyai appoints John Valastro as CEO

Valastro has more than 20 years leadership experience in several Australian corporate and technology firms, including Qantas and the Reveal Group, where he worked at the intersection of business and automation. Valastro has a long running passion for cutting-edge technology.

“We transition into our new phase of growth we are delighted to promote John into the CEO role,” said Scott.

On his new role, Valastro said: “I am thrilled and honoured to lead such a passionate and talented team operating at the forefront of AI innovation. With the pace of technology change continuing to accelerate, I am excited at the prospect of working with our talented team to drive Simplyai towards unprecedented success and shaping the future of intelligent technology.”

In March this year, Simplyai welcomed financial investor Liverpool Partners on board to help propel its growth trajectory. Together, the two players believe Simplyai is well positioned to capitalise on the AI boom sweeping through most industries. According to research from Arthur D. Little, nearly every CEO around the world is looking at or deploying AI to enhance the business.

Meanwhile, Kylie Herbst has been promoted internally to become the new Chief Operating Officer, while Robbie Fagan has been appointed Chief Financial Officer, he has been hired externally.