Stanisland Magazine

Daniel Ek is stepping down as Spotify CEO. What does that mean?

Daniel Ek has announced he will step down as Spotify CEO to pursue an Executive Chairman role.

The move follows backlash against his involvement with weapons technology. The billionaire also faces growing opposition for his treatment of musicians. Most notably, trip-hop group Massive Attack removed its entire catalogue from the platform in protest against the CEO’s investment in AI military.

Statement

In a statement, the company’s director said: “What changes is my time and focus. As Executive Chairman, I will spend more of my time on the long arc: strategy, capital allocation, regulatory efforts and the calls that will shape the next decade for Spotify.”

Ek went on to say his new role will be mostly “hands on”.

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However, his resignation has done little to earn the trust of musicians opposed to the Swedish tech leader’s methods.

A growing lack of confidence in the company continues to spread, owing to the founder’s deep connection to Spotify.

As an Executive Chairman, his duties will still involve him in the platform’s long-term strategy, as well as an advisor.