# Scott McFarlane

> Scott McFarlane co-founded Avalara in 2004, served as CEO from February 2007 until May 2026, and now advises the tax compliance software company. His earlier ventures included Lifecycle and MetaInfo, and his leadership became associated with orange clothing, partner relationships, and a deliberately playful approach to a serious business.

- **Role:** Co-founder and advisor at Avalara
- **Organizations:** Avalara, MetaInfo, Check Point Software Technologies, AIRCOA, Lifecycle
- **Education:** B.A. in Economics, Claremont McKenna College
- **Known for:** Co-founded and led Avalara through its public listing and later acquisition., GeekWire CEO of the Year, 2015.

## Career timeline

- **College years** — Worked with roommate Augie Nieto on the venture that became Lifecycle.
- **Before Avalara** — Worked in his father’s hotel business and later helped build MetaInfo with Jared Vogt; MetaInfo was sold to Check Point Software Technologies.
- **2004** — Co-founded Avalara with Rory Rawlings and Jared Vogt on Bainbridge Island; became chief operations officer.
- **2007** — Became Avalara CEO in February.
- **2015** — Received GeekWire CEO of the Year award.
- **2018** — Led Avalara through its June 15 NYSE debut.
- **2022** — Remained CEO when Vista Equity Partners completed Avalara’s acquisition on October 19.
- **2026** — Moved from CEO to advisor on May 28; Hugo Sarrazin became CEO.

## Achievements

- Co-founded and led Avalara through its public listing and later acquisition.
- GeekWire CEO of the Year, 2015.

## Latest updates

- **2026-05** — Became advisor to Avalara effective May 28, with Hugo Sarrazin appointed CEO.

## Links

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcfarlanescott
- Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/scottmmcfarlane
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmmcfarlane/

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Profile page: https://yespress.io/scott-mcfarlane
Published by YesPress — https://yespress.io
Last updated: 2026-10-13