Deputy founders Ashik Ahmed and Steve Shelley return as Interim Co-CEOs.
Founders return to build on the successful transformation led by outgoing CEO Silvija Martincevic.
SYDNEY, 13 November 2026 - Deputy today announced that co-founders Ashik Ahmed and Steve Shelley will return as interim Co-CEOs, effective today. Outgoing CEO Silvija Martincevic will remain with Deputy until 20 November to support an orderly handover to the founders, and will remain available to them to assist with the transition until 1 March 2027.
The leadership transition follows nearly four years of transformation under Martincevic. During her tenure, Deputy expanded from a workforce management solution into a broader AI powered platform for shift-based businesses, adding capabilities across scheduling, time and attendance, HR, payroll, analytics, messaging and AI. The company also strengthened its global operating foundations and established a sustainable financial position.
"Deputy today is a fundamentally stronger and more capable business than it was just a few years ago. Silvija has played an instrumental role in that transformation, helping us expand our vision, accelerate innovation and build the financial stability needed for long-term success. On behalf of the Board, I want to thank her for her tremendous contributions and leadership," said Shelley, Deputy Chair and co-founder.
“When Ashik and I founded Deputy, we wanted to make work better for shift workers and the businesses that employ them,” continued Shelley. “That mission still guides us. We’re returning to a stronger business, and we’re excited to work closely with our teams and customers as Deputy continues to grow.”
Ahmed said the company’s technology and customer foundation create new opportunities to improve hourly work.
“Deputy began with a firsthand understanding of the challenges facing small businesses and their teams,” said Ahmed. “AI is creating new ways to address those challenges. I’m looking forward to working with our teams and customers to build products that make a meaningful difference in people’s working lives.”
“Leading Deputy through this period of transformation has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” said Martincevic. “I’m proud of what our team has accomplished and have great confidence in Deputy’s people, products and future.”
Under the leadership structure announced today, Ahmed will oversee Product, Research & Development along with Customer Service. Shelley will lead Go to Market while continuing to serve as Chair of the Board. The Co-CEOs will jointly oversee Finance, Legal and other shared corporate functions, and share accountability for Deputy’s strategy, culture and overall performance.
The interim designation reflects the Board’s ongoing evaluation of the leadership structure best suited to Deputy’s needs as the business evolves. Roles and responsibilities may change over time.
As Deputy marks its 18th year, the company remains focused on improving the world of work, one shift at a time.
About Deputy
Deputy is the AI people platform built specifically for shift work. Trusted by nearly 400,000 workplaces in more than 100 countries, Deputy brings together AI-powered scheduling, compliance automation, accurate payroll and mobile-first communication to help businesses run more efficiently and teams feel empowered. Discover more at www.deputy.com.
