
IFS Strengthens Leadership Team with New Chief People Officer Appointment
Executive Leadership Announcement
IFS has confirmed a key executive appointment within its organizational structure. Mihita Podobnik assumes the role of Chief People Officer effective immediately. She succeeds Debra McCowan, who previously served as Chief Human Resources Officer. This transition marks a significant development in IFS’s leadership composition.
Professional Background and Qualifications
Podobnik brings substantial internal experience to her new position. She most recently served as IFS Chief of Staff, collaborating directly with executive leadership. During this tenure, she directed strategic initiatives and business transformation projects. Her proven ability to connect strategic planning with operational execution positions her ideally for this people-focused role.
CEO Endorsement and Strategic Vision
Mark Moffat, IFS Chief Executive Officer, expressed strong support for this appointment. He emphasized Podobnik’s established reputation within the organization and her deep understanding of company culture. Moffat anticipates her leadership will accelerate their high-performance agenda during global expansion. He additionally acknowledged McCowan’s contributions to shaping IFS’s people strategy.
New CPO’s Leadership Perspective
Mihita Podobnik articulated her vision for the human resources function during technological transformation. She recognizes talent development as crucial for competitive advantage in the Industrial AI sector. By cultivating an empowering organizational culture, she aims to drive business priority execution and market leadership consolidation.
Organizational Profile and Market Position
IFS maintains its position as the global leader in Industrial AI and enterprise software solutions. The company serves mission-critical industries that service, power, and protect essential systems worldwide. Their technology enables manufacturing, asset maintenance, and service operations to leverage artificial intelligence for enhanced productivity and sustainability.
Technology Platform Capabilities
IFS Cloud represents a fully composable, AI-powered enterprise platform. This solution delivers exceptional flexibility for evolving customer requirements. The integrated platform encompasses Enterprise Resource Planning, Enterprise Asset Management, Supply Chain Management, and Field Service Management functionalities. Advanced capabilities including machine learning and real-time analytics support strategic decision-making.
Corporate Heritage and Growth Trajectory
IFS originated in 1983 through a collaborative venture by five university partners. Their foundational commitment to customer availability established enduring operational values. The organization has expanded significantly to employ over 7,000 professionals across 80 countries. Core principles of agility, customer focus, and trust continue driving their recognized industry leadership.


