Upwork Executive and Leadership Team

Emmett Lee, the Chief Executive Officer at Upwork, directs the company's overarching strategy and vision. Lee guides the executive team in executing initiatives that align with Upwork's mission to connect businesses with independent professionals globally. This leadership role involves shaping the company's market position and driving growth through innovation in the freelance economy. Emmett Lee ensures the organization remains at the forefront of the gig economy, adapting to evolving market demands and technological advancements. The Chief Executive Officer's focus extends to fostering a culture of excellence and client satisfaction across all operational facets. Strategic decisions under Lee's purview impact the company's financial performance and long-term sustainability, solidifying Upwork's role as a leader in talent solutions.

Laura Jileta, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Financial Officer. Head of Business Automation and Operations at Upwork, provides critical support to the Chief Financial Officer and spearheads business automation efforts. Jileta directs initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency through technology and process improvements, particularly within financial operations. This dual role involves streamlining workflows, implementing automation solutions, and ensuring the smooth functioning of business operations. Laura Jileta's responsibilities include managing projects that drive productivity and cost-effectiveness across the organization. The Head of Business Automation and Operations' focus is on leveraging technology to optimize Upwork's business processes and support financial reporting accuracy. Jileta's contributions are vital for maintaining operational excellence and supporting strategic financial management.

Ibrar Arif, the Virtual Tax Preparer (US) & Chief Financial Officer, Tax (US) & Certified Accountant & Accountant at Upwork, leads the company's tax and accounting functions within the United States. Arif manages all aspects of financial reporting, tax compliance, and accounting operations, ensuring adherence to U.S. regulations. This role involves providing expert financial guidance and oversight to support Upwork's business objectives. Ibrar Arif's responsibilities include developing financial strategies, managing budgets, and ensuring the accuracy of financial data. The Chief Financial Officer, Tax (US) & Certified Accountant & Accountant's expertise is crucial for maintaining financial integrity and optimizing tax liabilities. Arif's leadership ensures robust financial management and compliance for Upwork's U.S. operations.

Eid Hussain, the Virtual Tax Preparer (US) & Chief Financial Officer, Tax (US) & Certified Xero Accountant & Quickbooks Pro Advisor at Upwork, leads specialized tax and accounting services for U.S. clients. Hussain manages tax preparation, financial advisory, and accounting support, leveraging expertise in Xero and QuickBooks. This role ensures compliance with U.S. tax laws and provides clients with accurate financial guidance. Eid Hussain's responsibilities include optimizing tax strategies and delivering exceptional accounting services to support business financial health. The Chief Financial Officer, Tax (US) & Certified Xero Accountant & Quickbooks Pro Advisor's proficiency is critical for clients navigating complex financial landscapes. Hussain's dedication to client success and financial accuracy strengthens Upwork's service offerings.

Anthony Kappus, the Chief Operating Officer at Upwork, oversees the company's global operations and service delivery. Kappus directs the teams responsible for platform integrity, customer support, and operational efficiency, ensuring a seamless experience for both businesses and freelancers. This leadership position involves optimizing processes to scale Upwork's services effectively across diverse markets. Anthony Kappus drives initiatives focused on enhancing the user journey and maintaining high standards of service quality. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic focus includes managing operational risks and implementing best practices to support the company's growth objectives. Kappus ensures that Upwork's operational infrastructure robustly supports its expanding global client base and freelancer network.

Caitlyn McNerney, the Senior Director, Strategy & To The Chief of Staff & Chief Operating Officer at Upwork, provides strategic direction and operational support across key leadership functions. McNerney collaborates closely with the Chief of Staff and Chief Operating Officer to develop and implement strategic initiatives that enhance business performance and operational efficiency. This role involves analyzing market trends, identifying growth opportunities, and contributing to the formulation of long-term strategic plans. Caitlyn McNerney's responsibilities include managing strategic projects, conducting market research, and supporting executive decision-making. The Senior Director, Strategy's expertise is vital for aligning departmental efforts with Upwork's overarching business objectives and ensuring effective execution of operational strategies. McNerney's work supports the company's sustained growth and market leadership.

Jillian Gabriel, the Chief of Staff at Upwork, provides direct strategic support to the Chief Executive Officer and facilitates the execution of key organizational priorities. Gabriel manages cross-functional projects, ensuring alignment between departmental objectives and the company's strategic roadmap. This role involves streamlining communication channels and optimizing operational workflows across the executive leadership team. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings, coordinating board meetings, and driving special initiatives that enhance business performance. Jillian Gabriel plays a crucial part in translating strategic directives into actionable plans, ensuring efficient implementation and monitoring progress. Gabriel's oversight contributes to the overall effectiveness and agility of Upwork's leadership functions.

Yahya Razi, the Chief Revenue Officer, Shopify & UX at Upwork, drives revenue growth strategies and oversees user experience initiatives related to the Shopify platform integration. Razi focuses on maximizing revenue streams and enhancing the platform's usability for clients and freelancers engaging through Shopify. This leadership position involves developing and implementing sales strategies, managing key partnerships, and ensuring a cohesive user experience. Yahya Razi's responsibilities include identifying new market opportunities and optimizing the customer journey to drive conversions and retention. The Chief Revenue Officer, Shopify & UX's expertise in both revenue generation and user-centric design is critical for expanding Upwork's market reach and client satisfaction. Razi's efforts directly contribute to Upwork's financial performance and competitive positioning.

Oseni Sodiq, the Deputy Chief Technology Officer at Upwork, supports the Chief Technology Officer in directing the company's technology strategy and infrastructure development. Sodiq oversees the implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance platform performance, security, and scalability. This role involves managing engineering teams and ensuring the successful execution of technology projects aligned with business goals. Oseni Sodiq's responsibilities include driving technical excellence and fostering a culture of innovation within the engineering department. The Deputy Chief Technology Officer's focus is on maintaining Upwork's technological edge and ensuring the platform's reliability for its global user base. Sodiq's contributions are essential for the continuous evolution and robust operation of Upwork's digital ecosystem.

Mark Peter, the Chief Revenue Officer, Shopify Go High Level Automation at Upwork, spearheads revenue generation efforts specifically focused on integrating Shopify with Go High Level automation strategies. Peter directs initiatives to expand revenue streams by optimizing the synergy between these platforms, enhancing client acquisition and retention. This leadership role involves developing sophisticated sales funnels and automation processes to drive business growth. Mark Peter's responsibilities include identifying market opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and ensuring the effective deployment of automation tools to boost sales performance. The Chief Revenue Officer, Shopify Go High Level Automation's expertise is crucial for maximizing Upwork's revenue potential through advanced technological integrations. Peter's strategic vision propels Upwork's market competitiveness and financial success.