Sources: in an internal Slack message Matt Mullenweg claims he is back in control of Automattic; on X, he says this may have been fifth coup attempt against him

Automattic's internal turmoil means founder control could shift abruptly, affecting company direction and your reliance on its services.

Matt Mullenweg, founder of Automattic, claims he has regained control of the company following a recent ouster as CEO. He announced this via an internal Slack message to staff, stating the board had "conspired" against him and placed him on paid leave, appointing CFO Mark Davies as interim CEO. Mullenweg indicated that a misunderstanding was at play and expressed respect for those involved. However, his claim of being back in control is unconfirmed by Automattic, and sources report his interim successor's Slack account has been deactivated. Mullenweg also hinted at a "fifth coup attempt" against him on X, suggesting external involvement and a need to relocate his hosted assets. Automattic has not yet responded to requests for confirmation.

This situation highlights the volatile nature of founder-led tech companies, where personal control can be as significant as board decisions. Mullenweg's dramatic statements and actions, including deactivating an interim CEO's account and posting cryptic messages, suggest a power struggle that could destabilize Automattic's operations and product roadmap. The involvement of a private equity firm in the background, as alleged by Mullenweg, adds another layer of complexity, potentially indicating broader industry pressures or strategic maneuvering.

For stakeholders invested in Automattic's products like WordPress.com, Tumblr, or Farcaster, this internal conflict signals potential uncertainty regarding future development and stability. The ambiguity surrounding Mullenweg's current authority and the board's stance leaves users and partners in a state of flux. Future developments will likely revolve around official confirmations from the board, the resolution of any legal disputes, and Mullenweg's ability to either solidify his position or step aside, impacting the company's long-term strategy and market perception.