Automattic confirms Mullenweg has returned as CEO after attempted ouster by board | TechCrunch

Automattic, the parent entity of WordPress.com, has officially confirmed that founder Matt Mullenweg has resumed his duties as chairman and chief executive officer following a tumultuous leadership dispute.

The announcement comes shortly after the company's board of directors voted to suspend Mullenweg on paid administrative leave, briefly appointing Chief Financial Officer Mark Davies as the interim leader. Upon his initial removal, Mullenweg expressed surprise and frustration, utilizing the company's internal communications network to accuse board members of conspiring to oust him from the firm he helped establish.

Instead of stepping aside, Mullenweg took active measures to regain control, which reportedly included removing administrative privileges for other users on internal chat channels and declaring his return to staff. He posted several unconventional messages online, comparing himself to a pirate and characterizing the board's actions as a failed coup attempt. Although rumors persist regarding potential shakeups and departures among board members—including reports concerning long-time affiliate Toni Schneider—Automattic's official stance is that Mullenweg retains the complete backing of the board and the broader organization.