Spotify's Daniel Ek Steps Down as CEO, Names Successors
Daniel Ek, the co-founder and longstanding CEO of Spotify, will step down from his leadership role at the end of 2025. He will transition to the position of Executive Chairman starting January 1, 2026. Alex Norström and Gustav Söderström, currently serving as Chief Freemium Business Officer and Chief Research & Development Officer respectively, will take over as Co-CEOs.
Ek's departure comes after a decade at the helm of the music streaming giant. Under his leadership, Spotify grew to over 696 million users and 276 million subscribers worldwide. His influence extended beyond the company's success, with Ek personally engaging in EU antitrust matters and Spotify becoming politically relevant at the EU level.
Ek's tenure was marked by significant milestones. In 2024, Spotify filed a complaint against Apple, leading to a €1.8 billion fine for Apple due to alleged App Store misuse. This move demonstrated Spotify's commitment to fair competition and consumer choice.
As Ek steps into the Executive Chairman role, he will continue to guide Spotify's strategic direction. Alex Norström and Gustav Söderström, with their extensive experience at the company, will lead Spotify's day-to-day operations. This transition ensures a smooth handover and maintains the company's momentum in the competitive streaming market.
