Automattic names interim CFO after exec departures | TechCrunch

Automattic has designated Jeremy Klaperman as its temporary chief financial officer following a turbulent period of executive departures and governance disputes.

Klaperman, who previously directed finances for the company’s enterprise-focused division, is stepping into the position after former CFO Mark Davies left the organization. This transition comes in the wake of a failed effort by the board of directors to oust CEO Matt Mullenweg, which instead culminated in the exits of the board members who initiated the vote as well as other high-ranking executives. Davies had temporarily occupied the chief executive role during Mullenweg's brief, thirty-three-hour absence before the founder reclaimed his leadership position.

The administrative reshuffling at the web development firm also extends to its legal department. Mullenweg announced that a candidate has verbally agreed to become the new chief legal officer, replacing Andy Missan, who departed alongside Davies. Investigators recently noted that both Missan and Davies had executed reciprocal severance agreements during the brief window when Mullenweg was sidelined. Despite these dramatic changes in the upper ranks, Mullenweg expressed absolute certainty regarding the organization's financial stability and capital position, asserting that the company's future success depends entirely on its internal execution. Further announcements regarding a newly appointed board of directors are expected ahead of an upcoming scheduled meeting.