Spotify is finalizing a new corporate blueprint that separates the roles of visionary and executor. Founder Daniel Ek is stepping down as CEO to become the executive chairman and chief visionary, while Gustav Söderström and Alex Norström will be responsible for execution as co-CEOs.
This new blueprint will be implemented on January 1st. The promotion of Söderström and Norström from their co-president roles is a formal recognition of the fact that they have been the master builders of Spotify’s strategy and operations since 2023.
The company has framed this as a move to make the blueprints match the existing structure. Ek confirmed that he had already handed over the tools and daily plans to the duo, and this change simply gives them the official titles of site foremen.
As executive chairman, Ek will now focus on designing the next generation of Spotify’s architecture. He plans to be an active and engaged leader, drafting the plans for how the company will incorporate AI and build its presence in new global markets.
This well-designed plan for leadership ensures that Spotify’s future construction is both ambitious and well-managed. With Ek drawing up the visionary plans, his trusted co-CEOs are empowered to build it to perfection.
