Spotify’s Daniel Ek Moves to Executive Chairman as New Co-CEOs Take Helm

Spotify announced a major leadership restructuring on September 30, shifting CEO Daniel Ek into the role of Executive Chairman while promoting Gustav Söderström and Lena Söderström-Norström to co-CEOs.

Under the new structure, Ek will focus on long-term strategy, innovation, and key partnerships, stepping back from day-to-day operations. The two co-CEOs are expected to manage Spotify’s daily business, product development, and global operations.

Gustav Söderström, Spotify’s Chief Product & Technology Officer, has been instrumental in shaping the company’s streaming platform. Lena Söderström-Norström, who currently serves as SVP of Content & Advertising, brings expertise in content strategy and monetization. The pair’s complementary skill sets are seen as ideal for navigating the evolving audio and podcast market.

Industry analysts view the move as Spotify remaining confident in the foundation Ek helped build, while enabling leaders focused on growth and scaling. The transition may also help Spotify attract more talent and adapt faster to shifting media consumption trends.

Spotify’s board expressed strong support for the change, citing continuity, strategic alignment, and internal leadership development.