Toptal Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Toptal has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and talent acquisition.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Toptal operates an online talent marketplace connecting businesses with skilled software developers and designers, shaping the future of remote work and global talent access.

Leadership Roles at Toptal

  • Chief Executive Officer - Austin Evarts
  • Chief Executive Officer & Founder - Umair Waheed
  • Chief Financial Officer - Carlos Aguirre
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jeffrey Benesch
  • Chief People Officer - Michelle Labbe
  • Chief People Officer, Fractional - Ayesha Ansar
  • Austin Evarts - Chief Executive Officer

    Austin Evarts, the Chief Executive Officer at Toptal, directs the company's overarching strategy and market positioning. Evarts guides Toptal's expansion within the freelance marketplace and online outsourcing sectors, ensuring alignment with the company's mission to connect businesses with top-tier software developers and designers. This leadership involves fostering innovation in talent acquisition and client engagement models. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on driving sustainable growth and enhancing Toptal's reputation as a premier provider of remote talent solutions. Austin Evarts oversees the strategic direction for all departments, ensuring operational excellence and market leadership in the competitive gig economy landscape. The Chief Executive Officer's role is critical in navigating market dynamics and capitalizing on emerging opportunities within the global talent pool.

    Umair Waheed - Chief Executive Officer & Founder

    Umair Waheed, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder at Toptal, architects the foundational vision and long-term trajectory for the company's online talent marketplace. Waheed's leadership drives the strategic development of services connecting organizations with specialized software developers and designers, solidifying Toptal's position in the global outsourcing industry. The Chief Executive Officer & Founder's responsibilities encompass pioneering new service offerings and expanding market reach across diverse industries. Umair Waheed ensures that Toptal remains at the forefront of innovation in remote work solutions, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. This executive role is pivotal in shaping the company's innovative approach to talent sourcing and client partnerships, directly impacting Toptal's market influence and operational scale.

    Carlos Aguirre - Chief Financial Officer

    Carlos Aguirre, the Chief Financial Officer at Toptal, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the company's global talent marketplace. Aguirre oversees budgeting, financial planning, and risk management, ensuring the economic health and sustainable growth of Toptal's outsourcing services. This role involves optimizing financial performance and driving profitability through strategic resource allocation. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is crucial in guiding investment decisions and maintaining strong relationships with financial stakeholders. Carlos Aguirre directs the financial reporting and compliance functions, ensuring adherence to all regulatory requirements across Toptal's operational regions. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic insights support the company's expansion initiatives and enhance its competitive market standing.
    Carlos Aguirre

    Jeffrey Benesch - Chief Operating Officer

    Jeffrey Benesch, the Chief Operating Officer at Toptal, oversees the day-to-day operational efficiency and scalability of the company's freelance marketplace. Benesch directs the execution of business strategies, ensuring seamless service delivery for clients seeking software developers and designers. This leadership involves optimizing internal processes and enhancing the user experience for both businesses and freelancers. The Chief Operating Officer's focus is on driving operational excellence and supporting Toptal's global expansion efforts. Jeffrey Benesch manages the infrastructure supporting Toptal's extensive network of talent, ensuring robust performance and reliability. The Chief Operating Officer's role is integral to maintaining Toptal's reputation for quality and efficiency in the online outsourcing industry.

    Michelle Labbe - Chief People Officer

    Michelle Labbe, the Chief People Officer at Toptal, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies for the company's global workforce. Labbe is responsible for cultivating a high-performance culture, overseeing recruitment, employee engagement, and professional development initiatives. This role ensures Toptal attracts and retains top talent within its freelance marketplace and internal teams. The Chief People Officer's strategic direction supports the company's growth objectives by fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment. Michelle Labbe drives initiatives that enhance employee experience and align people strategies with Toptal's business goals. The Chief People Officer's leadership is vital for maintaining Toptal's competitive edge in talent acquisition and retention.

    Ayesha Ansar - Chief People Officer, Fractional

    Ayesha Ansar, the Chief People Officer, Fractional at Toptal, provides specialized strategic guidance on human capital management and organizational development. Ansar focuses on enhancing Toptal's talent acquisition and retention frameworks, ensuring the company effectively sources and supports its global network of software developers and designers. This fractional leadership role involves implementing targeted HR initiatives that align with Toptal's unique business model as an online talent marketplace. The Chief People Officer, Fractional's expertise drives improvements in employee experience and organizational effectiveness. Ayesha Ansar contributes to shaping Toptal's people-centric strategies, reinforcing its position as an employer of choice in the remote work sector. This executive's contributions are key to optimizing Toptal's human resources operations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Toptal Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Toptal?
    Toptal is led by Austin Evarts (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Umair Waheed (Chief Executive Officer & Founder) and Carlos Aguirre (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Toptal’s executive team?
    The executive team of Toptal includes leaders such as Austin Evarts (Chief Executive Officer), Umair Waheed (Chief Executive Officer & Founder), Carlos Aguirre (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Toptal have?
    Toptal has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Toptal’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Toptal includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief People Officer.