Rich Padula

Rich Padula is a prominent entrepreneur and business leader based in Chicago, Illinois.1 He is best known as the founder of Syclo, a leading enterprise mobile platform company that he started in 1996 from his basement.2 Under his leadership as CEO for 16 years, Syclo grew to over 200 employees with customers in 39 countries, becoming a major channel partner for SAP, IBM, and Oracle.2

Career Highlights

Syclo and SAP: Rich's success with Syclo led to its acquisition by SAP in 2012.2 Following the acquisition, he was appointed as SAP's Chief Strategy Officer for Mobile, a position he held until July 2014.2 In this role, he was responsible for setting SAP's direction for future mobile applications and the next generation of the SAP Mobile Platform.2

Awards and Recognition: Rich's entrepreneurial achievements were recognized when he received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2004.2

Current Roles

Board Positions: Rich currently serves as a board director for several companies, including:

• Xwing
• Mirata
• Havensight Consulting Group
• Intelligent Flying Machines
• Vodori2

Academic Involvement: Rich is actively involved in education and mentorship:

• He serves on the faculty at Northwestern University
• Teaches at the Farley Center for Entrepreneurship
• Mentors students at The Garage, Northwestern University's innovation hub2

Education

Rich attended Northwestern University, where he received a degree in Industrial Engineering and Management Science.2

Rich Padula's LinkedIn profile, with the username richpadula, reflects his extensive experience and connections in the business world, boasting over 500 connections.1