M-Files, a leader in automating knowledge work, has appointed Jay Bhatt as its new CEO. Jay Bhatt brings extensive experience in leading and growing software companies. He has served as CEO at both private and publicly traded firms, including Alfresco Software, Blackboard and Progress Software, and held a senior leadership role at Autodesk overseeing the architecture, engineering and construction business unit.
The appointment coincides with the completion of a major ownership restructuring led by Haveli Investments and Bregal Milestone—two private equity firms focused on software and technology. Jay Bhatt has also participated in the transaction through his own investment vehicle, CrossParadigm Capital.
M-Files founder and former CEO, Antti Nivala, will transition to the role of Chief Innovation Officer, where he will continue to drive innovation across the company’s platform for automated knowledge work. He will also remain as chair of the board and continue contributing to strategic guidance.
“When we founded M-Files twenty years ago, our goal was to help employees and organizations work smarter. I am proud of the progress we’ve enabled for our customers,” says Antti Nivala. “As we enter the next phase of growth, we are well positioned with the right team in place to capitalize on significant market opportunity.”
“The ways we collect and use knowledge are evolving faster than ever. M-Files occupies a unique position to help organizations transform how they manage, access and leverage information. That strengthens productivity and enables better-informed decisions,” says Jay Bhatt. “I want to thank Antti and the M-Files team for their dedication and hard work in building a market leader. I look forward to working with our new investors and leadership team to take M-Files to the next level.”
The new ownership structure, led by Haveli Investments and Bregal Milestone, was finalized and made official on November 29.