We’re proud to announce that our COO and a 15Five leader for nearly seven years, Dr. Jeff Smith, has been promoted to CEO. Jeff succeeds David Hassell, 15Five’s co-founder, who will remain on the board and focus on evangelizing 15Five and our mission.
Veteran technology executive Larry Dunivan, who joined 15Five’s board in January 2025, has been appointed Executive Chairman. Larry and Jeff will continue to partner closely as 15Five enters its next chapter.
This is the leadership team taking 15Five forward.
Jeff is no stranger to performance management or how technology is changing work. A psychologist, people leader, technologist, inventor, and bestselling author of “The Meaningful Manager: How to Manage What Matters,” he’s spent much of his career focused on how organizations and technology can help people perform at their best. And yes, at 15Five, we continue to be bullish in our belief that humans will always be at the center of how companies create value – even in the AI era.
"I've spent nearly seven years at 15Five because I believe work and technology should add to people's lives, not subtract from them,” said Smith. “That belief is more relevant now, in the AI era, than ever. I'm honored to lead this team into what comes next.”
“Elevating humans has always been at the core of 15Five, and that belief matters even more in the AI era. Jeff has been a longtime trusted advisor and partner to me,” said Hassell. “Across R&D, marketing, sales, CX, operations, and strategy, he’s consistently brought a rare combination of customer- and human-centricity, operational rigor, and a deep, genuine care for people. There is nobody better suited to lead 15Five going forward.”
Our account and support teams are here to serve you. Our roadmap remains on track. Learn more about where we’re headed at 15Five Next.