NEXTGEN founder John Walters to retire next year

NEXTGEN founder and CEO John Walters will retire on 30 April 2026, closing a 28-year career in the technology distribution and channel industry.

His departure comes a little over two years after NEXTGEN was acquired by Exclusive Networks.

A structured transition will take place in the first quarter of 2026, with Walters working closely with Wendy O’Keeffe as she prepares to assume leadership of NEXTGEN.

O’Keeffe joined the company in 2020, launched NEXTGEN Asia, and most recently served as Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing for ANZ. She returned to Australia from Singapore last year.

Founded in Australia, NEXTGEN has become a recognised distributor in cybersecurity, cloud and enterprise software, Since the 2024 acquisition, NEXTGEN and Exclusive Networks have completed a complex integration while expanding their vendor portfolio.

The NEXTGEN brand will continue to operate in ANZ.

Walters described O’Keeffe as the natural successor.

“Wendy knows the business, the market and the channel. She has the experience and credibility to lead NEXTGEN into its next phase," he said.

“Joining Exclusive Networks was about finding the right global organisation to take NEXTGEN forward. After nearly three decades in the channel, this is the right moment for me to step back and focus on my family.”

O’Keeffe said Walters built a company defined by trust and high standards.

"With the support of Exclusive Networks and our teams, NEXTGEN is well positioned for long-term growth," she said.

Exclusive Networks CEO Jesper Trolle expressed confidence in the transition.

“NEXTGEN has strengthened our presence in the region and added unique capabilities. Wendy brings continuity and ambition, and we thank John for his contribution," he said.

Reflecting on his career, Walters emphasised the strength of the industry and its people.

“This industry has given me extraordinary opportunities and the privilege of working with talented colleagues, committed vendors and loyal partners," he said.

"The relationships built over the years matter as much as the business success. I especially want to thank my Co-Founder, Steve Murphy, and the entire NEXTGEN team — none of this would have been possible without you.”