Richard White resigned as executive chair of WiseTech on Tuesday. Police are investigating allegations that White exploited a worker's financial and visa status for a sexual relationship and provided false information for the cleaner's visa application. White denied the allegations.

White will continue as a board director and chief innovation officer at the company. Raelene Murphy replaced White as chair of WiseTech. White said recent media attention regarding personal matters was creating an unnecessary distraction for WiseTech's business.

"As I have stated previously, I strenuously and unequivocally deny the recent allegations in the media," White said. He also said he would focus on WiseTech's growth strategy in his role as chief innovation officer. WiseTech shares rose 8.1% on Tuesday afternoon, adding nearly $1 billion to the company's market value. The company's valuation was less than $13 billion on Tuesday, compared to more than $40 billion in July 2025.

Nine newspapers reported in June that police were investigating White. Murphy said her personal experience working with White was totally at odds with media reports. Murphy said the board wanted to keep White's depth of experience but would focus on planning for executive succession. WiseTech's statement mentioned succession planning led by chief executive Zubin Appoo.

Analyst Jackson Lee said White's resignation was another step in the right direction. Lee said investors would want proof of improved governance before buying back in. He said the market will likely want to see ongoing evidence that the refreshed board, chief executive, and chief innovation officer operate independently.

White stepped down as chief executive of WiseTech in 2024. A company-ordered review in November 2024 cleared White of allegations of bullying and intimidation. He returned to leadership as executive chair in February 2025. Prior to February 2025, four board members resigned over intractable disagreement regarding White's ongoing role. Murphy was appointed to WiseTech's board in January. WiseTech began laying off 30% of its workforce in May.