Autodesk’s Board Member, Elizabeth “Betsy” Rafael, to Retire
San Francisco, CA – April 2, 2025 – Autodesk, Inc., a leading design and engineering technology company, announced today that Elizabeth “Betsy” Rafael has informed the Autodesk Board of Directors of her intention not to seek re-election at the company’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. Rafael, who has been a valuable member of the Autodesk Board since September 2013, will be leaving her position after eight years of dedicated service.
Rafael’s Tenure at Autodesk
During her tenure at Autodesk, Rafael served many important roles. She chaired the Audit Committee from March 2016 to May 2024, where she played a crucial role in overseeing the company’s financial reporting and internal controls. In addition, she served as Interim CFO from May 31, 2024, until December 16, 2024, during a critical period of transition for the company.
Impact on Autodesk
Rafael’s departure from the Autodesk Board marks the end of an era for the company. Her expertise and leadership will be greatly missed. Autodesk’s Board of Directors is currently in the process of identifying a suitable replacement. In the meantime, the company will continue to operate as usual, with a focus on delivering innovative design and engineering solutions to its customers.
Impact on Individuals and the World
The departure of Rafael from Autodesk’s Board may have ripple effects throughout the design and engineering technology industry. Rafael was a respected leader and mentor, and her departure may leave a void that will be difficult to fill. In addition, her departure may impact investors, as Autodesk’s stock price may be affected by the news.
Beyond Autodesk, Rafael’s retirement may also have broader implications for the business world. She was a trailblazer for women in technology and finance, and her departure may serve as a reminder of the importance of gender diversity in corporate leadership. It is essential that companies continue to prioritize diversity and inclusion in their recruitment and retention efforts.
Conclusion
Elizabeth “Betsy” Rafael’s retirement from Autodesk’s Board of Directors marks the end of an era for the company. Her expertise, leadership, and dedication have been invaluable, and she will be deeply missed. The search for her replacement is underway, and the Autodesk team remains focused on delivering innovative design and engineering solutions to its customers. Rafael’s departure also serves as a reminder of the importance of gender diversity in corporate leadership, and the need for continued efforts to recruit and retain women in technology and finance.
- Autodesk, Inc. announced that Elizabeth “Betsy” Rafael will not seek re-election at the company’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders
- Rafael joined the Autodesk Board in September 2013 and served many important roles, including Audit Committee chair and Interim CFO
- Her departure may have ripple effects throughout the design and engineering technology industry and beyond
- The search for her replacement is underway, and Autodesk remains focused on delivering innovative solutions to its customers
- Rafael’s retirement serves as a reminder of the importance of gender diversity in corporate leadership
