Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg Placed on Leave by Board

Matt Mullenweg, the founder and CEO of Automattic, has been placed on a paid leave of absence by the company's board, a move he claims was made against his will. In a Slack message to employees, Mullenweg accused CFO Mark Davies and board members Ann Dunwoody, Toni Schneider, and Sue Decker of conspiring to vote him out of his position. He stated that he was informed of the decision just 50 minutes before a scheduled meeting and was denied time to consult with legal counsel.

Mark Davies has been appointed as the interim CEO during Mullenweg's absence. Despite the leave, Mullenweg will remain a board member and is expected to have a role in decision-making. Automattic confirmed the leave in a statement, expressing confidence in Davies' leadership.

The decision comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding Mullenweg's management style and a protracted legal battle with WP Engine, which has seen tensions escalate within the company. Mullenweg's leadership has previously led to significant employee turnover, with 159 employees accepting buyout offers after expressing disagreement with his management.

What we know

• Matt Mullenweg has been placed on a paid leave of absence by Automattic's board. Confirmed by techcrunch.com, www.404media.co
• Mark Davies has been appointed as interim CEO during Mullenweg's leave. Confirmed by techcrunch.com, www.404media.co
• Mullenweg accused Davies and board members of conspiring against him. Confirmed by techcrunch.com, www.404media.co
• Mullenweg remains a board member and will have a voice in decision-making. Confirmed by techcrunch.com, www.404media.co
• Mullenweg's leadership has been controversial, leading to significant employee turnover. Confirmed by techcrunch.com, www.404media.co

Sources

• techcrunch.com — Boardroom Turmoil: Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg Forced into Leave of Absence
• www.404media.co — Automattic's CEO Matt Mullenweg Announces Leave of Absence Amid Controversy