Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, has confirmed that Matt Mullenweg is back as its chairman and CEO after a recent board vote temporarily placed him on leave. Earlier in the week, the board had voted to remove Mullenweg from his position and appointed Chief Financial Officer Mark Davies as interim CEO. The reasons for the board's decision were not disclosed.
Mullenweg appeared to resist the board's move, regaining control of the company’s internal communication channels and informing employees that he was reinstated. His actions included removing other administrators from the company Slack workspace and posting messages that suggested a defiant stance.
Despite the initial confusion, a company spokesperson later affirmed Mullenweg’s full support from the board and highlighted backing from senior executives and staff. Mullenweg himself acknowledged the turmoil as one of several leadership challenges he has faced during his tenure.
Requests for further details from Automattic about the board changes and the status of board member Toni Schneider, a former CEO of Automattic now leading Bluesky, have not been answered. The company’s leadership situation appears to remain somewhat unsettled.
This episode is significant as it highlights the complexities of governance in high-profile tech companies and the challenges founders can face in maintaining control amid board conflicts. Automattic’s swift resolution may help stabilize the company’s direction going forward.