Automattic has named Jeremy Klaperman, previously CFO of its WordPress VIP Enterprise unit, as interim chief financial officer following a recent shakeup among its executive ranks. This change comes after an attempted board-led ouster of CEO Matt Mullenweg, which led to several executives departing the company, including former CFO Mark Davies and Chief Legal Officer Andy Missan. Klaperman had temporarily filled the CFO role during Davies’ sabbatical, and will now oversee the financial duties while a permanent replacement is sought.

The leadership crisis unfolded last week when some board members voted to put Mullenweg on a leave of absence, during which Davies briefly served as interim CEO. Mullenweg swiftly reclaimed his position, prompting the exit of the dissenting board members and other senior staff who had aligned with them. In an internal communication, Mullenweg expressed confidence in Automattic’s financial stability despite the turmoil, affirming that control rests with the company’s execution capabilities.

In addition to the interim CFO appointment, Mullenweg announced a new chief legal officer had verbally accepted a role to succeed Missan, who left alongside Davies amid the executive upheaval. Both Davies and Missan reportedly finalized reciprocal severance agreements during the brief period Mullenweg was off the CEO role. These moves illustrate Automattic’s efforts to stabilize its leadership after a period of uncertainty.

Looking ahead, the company’s board will evaluate both internal and external candidates for the CFO position before making a final decision. The board, now reconstituted after the departure of members involved in the CEO dispute, has yet to announce new appointees. Automattic’s next board meeting is scheduled for September 23, with ongoing communication promised to keep stakeholders informed as the company navigates this leadership transition.