Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg Put on 'Leave of Absence'

Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg announced a paid leave of absence, stating he won't be present for the upcoming ELT meeting. Mark Davies, the current CFO, took over temporarily, with approval from the Automattic Board of Directors, which included Ann Dunwoody, Toni Schneider, and Sue Decker. Mullenweg accused CFO Davies and the board members of conspiring against him, voting in opposition to his decision.

Davies informed Mullenweg that he would remain a board member and continue to have a voice in the company's direction. The board expressed confidence in Davies' ability to lead Automattic while Mullenweg is away, promising transparency, communication, and teamwork. Mullenweg has been involved in a controversial legal battle with WP Engine for several years, making buyout offers to employees who disagreed with his stances and threatening others with termination if they spoke to the press.