Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg Discusses Future Succession Plans: Disposing of Traditional Committee Handovers

Published: 04 Mar 2025
Matt Mullenweg, CEO of Automattic, expresses his unconventional succession planning, rejecting traditional methods of handing the reigns over to a committee.

When it comes to business succession planning, convention says that handing over the helm to a committee is the safest bet. But Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg is not one to play by the rules. His approach to succession planning involves an outright rejection of the typical process, instead opting for a strategic transition that doesn’t involve a committee.

In his eyes, the traditional method of passing the baton to a committee results in bureaucratic red tape that can mire the adaptability of a company in today’s dynamic business environment. His sentiments mirror a shift in thought among innovative leaders, many of whom are beginning to see the value in non-traditional succession planning that emphasizes individual talents and skills.