The internal power struggle at Automattic, the parent company of WordPress, concluded with founder Matt Mullenweg retaining his position as CEO and Chairman. The conflict began in early September when the board of directors voted to place Mullenweg on paid leave, appointing CFO Mark Davies as interim CEO.
Mullenweg publicly challenged the board's decision, labeling the move a coup. Within days, the situation shifted in his favor. Automattic confirmed that Mullenweg resumed full control of operations, while Mark Davies stepped down from the interim leadership role.
The resolution of the crisis involved significant changes to the board of directors. Tony Schneider, a former Automattic CEO and current head of Bluesky, resigned from his board position. Sources also confirmed the departure of directors Sue Decker and Ann Dunwoody.
While Automattic did not detail every personnel change, a company spokesperson acknowledged that several individuals had left their posts. The board now expresses full support for Mullenweg, marking a complete shift in the company's internal power structure following the departure of the dissenting directors.
