Starboard Value nominates three directors, citing cost concerns and governance issues
Activist investment firm Starboard Value has nominated three candidates for Autodesk’s board, reigniting a battle over the company’s financial strategy. The nominees, announced on Wednesday, include former Cadence Design Systems CFO Geoff Ribar, Deloitte & Touche senior partner Christie Simons, and Starboard’s CEO Jeff Smith.
Holding a $500 million stake in Autodesk, Starboard previously attempted to secure board seats but failed due to missed deadlines. The firm has criticised Autodesk’s spending levels, arguing that the company operates at higher costs than its industry peers and has not delivered expected market performance.
Last year, Starboard urged Autodesk to consider leadership changes and implement cost reductions to improve margins. With the 2025 annual meeting approaching, the investor is making a renewed effort to influence the company’s direction.
