Spotify is rolling out a new leadership playbook, positioning founder Daniel Ek as its chief visionary in the role of executive chairman, while appointing Gustav Söderström and Alex Norström as the operational leaders in a co-CEO structure.
This new formation will take effect on January 1st. Söderström, the product and tech chief, and Norström, the business chief, have been serving as co-presidents and have effectively been running the company’s day-to-day strategy and execution since 2023, making this a logical promotion.
The company described the move as a formalization of this proven operational model. Ek confirmed that he had already delegated a significant amount of his responsibilities to the pair, and the title change reflects this existing division of labor.
Ek’s new playbook involves focusing on the “long arc” of Spotify’s journey. As an active executive chairman, he will challenge the company to stay ahead of technological curves like AI and to capture the massive audience in emerging streaming markets.
This strategic division of roles is designed to optimize Spotify’s leadership capabilities. With the co-CEOs focused on running and growing the current business, Ek is free to dedicate his time and energy to ensuring the company wins the future.