Automattic has officially confirmed that Matt Mullenweg has resumed his role as CEO and chairman. This announcement follows a week of internal conflict during which the company board initially voted to place Mullenweg on a paid leave of absence.
During the period of his removal, the board had appointed Chief Financial Officer Mark Davies as interim CEO. Mullenweg contested the board's decision, claiming the members were conspiring against him and asserting his continued control over the company's internal communications.
Reports indicate that Mullenweg restricted other administrators from the company Slack channel during the dispute. He publicly characterized the situation as a coup attempt, noting that he has faced similar challenges to his leadership on five separate occasions.
The company has not provided details regarding the potential departure of board member Toni Schneider, who currently leads Bluesky. Automattic stated that Mullenweg now holds the full support of the board, though the composition of the board remains subject to change.
