Daniel Ek steps down as Spotify CEO, transitions to executive chairman
- Daniel Ek, the founder of Spotify, is stepping down from his role as CEO and will become the executive chairman.
- Gustav Söderström and Alex Norström, both current co-presidents, are set to assume the co-CEO positions on January 1, 2026.
- The transition reflects a long-discussed evolution in Spotify's leadership, pursuant to the operational model the company has followed since 2023.
In Stockholm, Sweden, on September 30, 2025, Spotify announced that its founder Daniel Ek will step down as the Chief Executive Officer to transition into the role of executive chairman. Gustav Söderström and Alex Norström, both current co-presidents, will take over as co-CEOs effective January 1, 2026. Ek noted that over recent years, he has delegated much of the day-to-day management to Söderström and Norström, emphasizing that this change aligns titles with how Spotify operates. The leadership change has formalized their operational leadership since 2023. Ek founded Spotify nearly two decades ago and indicated that the transition reflects an ongoing evolution in the company’s leadership structure, which has been under discussion by the board for several years. He expressed strong confidence in Söderström and Norström, highlighting their integral roles in shaping the company from its inception. Under Ek's new chairmanship, he will focus on long-term strategies, capital allocation, and supporting the senior team as they navigate Spotify’s growth and expansion. The announcement of Ek’s departure from the CEO role led to a decline in Spotify's shares, a typical response during such transitions. This leadership shakeup mirrors recent trends in other companies opting for dual CEO models, with organizations recognizing the overlap between various operational roles. Spotify asserts this change signifies stability and continuity for its strategic direction, particularly given its significant global subscriber base beyond music, which now includes podcasts and audiobooks. The company has experienced various challenges, including criticisms surrounding artist royalties and content censorship. Nonetheless, Ek's remarks during an online session highlighted ongoing growth opportunities, including potential expansions into less familiar markets. He reiterated his commitment to long-term vision and continued involvement in the company's future, reinforcing a transition that aims to reflect the evolving landscape of both the music industry and corporate governance.