We’re excited to share big news: Nichole Gunn has been named Extu’s new Chief Executive Officer.
Nichole steps into the role after a record-setting first half of 2025, bringing nearly two decades of leadership, energy, and vision to the helm. She’s been with Extu for 17 years, most recently serving as Chief Marketing & Sales Officer, where she drove growth strategy, product innovation, and culture. Along the way, she’s built a reputation as a dynamic leader who knows this business inside and out.
“Leading Extu into this next chapter is an incredible opportunity,” Nichole said. “We’ve built serious momentum, we know exactly where we’re headed, and the market should take notice. With the right vision, the right teams, and the right partners already in place, we’re set to make big moves — and this is just the beginning.”
Nichole’s appointment also reflects a broader shift in our industry: more women stepping into senior leadership roles in a historically male-dominated space. In manufacturing, women make up about one-third of the workforce and 26% of leadership roles. In procurement and supply chain, women represent around 38% of employees, yet far fewer make it into C-suite decision-making. And only about 17% of Chief Supply Chain Officers in North America are women.
Nichole spoke candidly about this topic in Extu’s Women Empowerment Panel,
“I think diversity in leadership is imperative, so regardless of age and gender and race, you need those opinions. We all have different walks of life and the more we we seek to understand them, the more knowledge we have and the more impactful we’re going to be—the more successful we’re going to be, not just as an organization, but as people.”
Mark Herbert, Board Member and Advisor to the CEO, said, “Nichole has the experience, passion, and drive to take Extu forward. Her leadership is exactly what the company needs at this exciting stage.”
Looking ahead, Nichole will focus on accelerating client growth through our Partner Experience Platform, advancing our AI-driven platform strategy, and expanding Extu’s impact across industries including tech, automotive, building, and insurance. She’ll also oversee the launch of a new program later this year, driven by client insights and industry demand.
Joining her in this next phase of leadership is William Shida, who has been promoted from Chief Financial Officer to President and Chief Operating Officer. William brings an outstanding record of financial and operational leadership to the role and will continue to guide Extu’s financial operations while driving company-wide growth.
“William and I have built a strong partnership over the years,” Nichole said. “We’re aligned on driving growth and pursuing channel clarity, and I’m excited to continue working alongside him as we lead Extu forward.”
This leadership team positions Extu for bold growth, continued innovation, and even stronger partnerships with our clients.
Read the full press release at https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/09/23/3154547/0/en/Capstreet-backed-Extu-Announces-Executive-Appointments.html
