Professional Diversity Network, Inc. (IPDN) has announced a leadership transition effective October 2, 2026. The Board of Directors determined not to renew the appointment of Mr. Xun Wu as Chief Executive Officer following the expiration of his term on July 22, 2026. The Board cited the expiration of his term as the reason for the change, noting that Mr. Wu’s departure was not due to any disagreement regarding the company's operations, policies, or practices.
On the same day, the Board appointed the company's current Chief Financial Officer, Yiran Gu, to serve as Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Gu, age 37, has served as CFO since August 2025. Prior to joining Professional Diversity Network, she served as a director and chief strategy officer at Koala Malta Limited from July 2021 to August 2025. She will continue to serve in both the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer roles until her successor is duly appointed or as otherwise determined by the Board.
The Board approved an Employment Agreement for Ms. Gu on October 2, 2026, effective immediately. The agreement has a term of 12 months. Under the terms, Ms. Gu is entitled to aggregate annual base compensation of $300,000 for her service in both offices. The compensation may be paid in cash, shares of the Company’s common stock, or a combination of both, subject to approval by the Compensation Committee. The agreement includes customary confidentiality, non-disclosure, and non-solicitation provisions. It supersedes the employment agreement dated August 8, 2025, between the Company and Ms. Gu, except for separate indemnification or equity award agreements.
