WordPress, the content management system that powers roughly 40% of all websites, is at the center of a dramatic leadership struggle at Automattic, the company that operates WordPress.com. On September 9, Automattic's board voted to place CEO Matt Mullenweg on paid leave and temporarily hand control to CFO Mark Davies, a move Mullenweg opposed and quickly labeled an internal conspiracy.
The episode echoes the OpenAI boardroom shock of late 2023, when Sam Altman was briefly ousted only to return days later. Now, the WordPress community and millions of site owners are watching to see if history repeats itself—or if this crisis takes a different turn.
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What Happened at Automattic?
According to reports, Automattic's board—including directors Ann Dunwoody, Toni Schneider, and Sue Decker—voted to sideline Mullenweg, citing unspecified concerns. Mullenweg claims he learned of the resolution just 50 minutes before the meeting and was denied legal review beforehand.
He wasted no time firing back, accusing Davies and the directors of orchestrating a "coup" against him. The public spat has exposed deep fractures within Automattic's leadership, raising questions about governance and the future direction of WordPress.
Why This Matters for WordPress Users
WordPress is more than a blogging tool; it's the backbone of the open web. From small business sites to major publishers, 40% of the internet relies on its code. Any instability at Automattic, which also owns WooCommerce, Tumblr, and WordPress.com, could ripple across the ecosystem.
Developers, hosting providers, and plugin authors depend on Automattic's stewardship of the open-source project. A prolonged power struggle could slow innovation, disrupt partnerships, or even prompt a fork of the platform—though that remains a worst-case scenario.
Key Takeaways
- Boardroom battle: Automattic's board placed CEO Matt Mullenweg on paid leave, temporarily appointing CFO Mark Davies as leader.
- Mullenweg's response: He accuses directors of a "conspiracy" and says he had little notice or legal review.
- WordPress dominance: The platform powers about 40% of all websites, making Automattic's stability critical to the web.
- Echoes of OpenAI: The situation mirrors Sam Altman's brief ouster, highlighting tensions between founders and boards.
- Uncertainty ahead: The standoff could affect WordPress development, community trust, and Automattic's other products.
Mullenweg vs. the Board: A Timeline
The conflict became public on September 9 when the board voted to remove Mullenweg. He immediately contested the decision, framing it as a surprise move by directors he had appointed. The board has not publicly detailed its reasons, but the swift appointment of Davies suggests a premeditated plan.
Mullenweg's allies within Automattic and the WordPress community have rallied behind him, while others call for transparency. The board has yet to comment on the allegations of conspiracy.
Who Is Matt Mullenweg?
Mullenweg co-founded WordPress in 2003 and has led Automattic since 2005. He's a polarizing figure known for his passionate defense of open-source values and his sometimes combative style. Under his leadership, Automattic grew into a multi-billion-dollar company.
His temporary replacement, Mark Davies, is a seasoned finance executive who joined Automattic as CFO. Davies now faces the challenge of steadying the ship while the board and Mullenweg trade blows. The background to this story is set out in Business: latest articles.
What's Next for WordPress and Automattic?
The board's decision is not necessarily final. Mullenweg could fight to reclaim his role, as Altman did at OpenAI. Alternatively, the board might push for a permanent change in leadership, which could reshape Automattic's strategy. A related thread runs through AI Is Minting Millionaires Fast in Silicon Valley — But Many Don't Know What.
For now, WordPress development continues, but the uncertainty looms large. Site owners should monitor official channels for updates, while investors and employees brace for a potential legal battle. Earlier coverage in Wind Turbine Blade Recycling Breakthrough: Blades Turned Into Asphalt shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in WordPress CEO Matt Mullenweg Faces Boardroom Rebellion at Automattic.
Comparison: Automattic vs. OpenAI Boardroom Crises
| Aspect | Automattic (2025) | OpenAI (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Leader ousted | Matt Mullenweg (CEO) | Sam Altman (CEO) |
| Interim leader | Mark Davies (CFO) | Mira Murati (CTO) |
| Public reaction | Mullenweg alleges conspiracy | Altman's supporters revolt |
| Outcome | Ongoing | Altman reinstated within days |
| Impact on product | WordPress (40% of web) | ChatGPT and AI APIs |
FAQ
What is Automattic and why does it matter?
Automattic is the company behind WordPress.com, WooCommerce, Tumblr, and other web services. It plays a key role in maintaining the open-source WordPress project, which powers about 40% of all websites.
Why was Matt Mullenweg placed on leave?
The board voted to place him on paid leave, but the exact reasons haven't been publicly disclosed. Mullenweg claims it was a conspiracy by certain directors and the CFO, and that he had little notice.
How does this affect regular WordPress users?
For now, WordPress software and services continue to operate normally. However, a prolonged leadership crisis could impact future development, community trust, and the strategic direction of the platform.
Could Mullenweg return as CEO?
It's possible. The situation mirrors OpenAI's 2023 crisis, where Sam Altman was reinstated within days after board backlash. Much depends on internal negotiations and support from employees and the community.
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