In 2019, I planned to create an open protocol for social media, with the goal of enabling the development of a new generation of applications designed to empower users. The Bluesky app started as a reference client for the protocol, but has since grown into a thriving platform with over 40 million users. Last year, we grew a world-class team, expanded the AT Protocol ecosystem, and proved that values-driven social networks can thrive at scale.
As Bluesky matures, the company needs an experienced operator focused on scaling and execution, while I return to what I do best: building new things. As part of this transition, Tony Schneider, former CEO of Automattic and partner at True Ventures, will join our team as interim CEO while our Board searches for a permanent Chief Executive.
Tony believes deeply in the Bluesky mission, and has been a mentor to me both in the company and personally for over a year. Automattic and True Ventures are both investors in Bluesky, and support the development of a more open, user-driven Internet. Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com, has built its business on open source software, working to make the web a better and more interactive place. Tony was a key part in guiding that mission, and he’s someone who leads with genuine curiosity, takes a long-term view, and deeply understands what it means to build a company around a mission. I am confident that he is the right person to lead us in this next chapter.
Scaling this company has been a learning experience unlike anything else. I have grown tremendously as a leader and have been fortunate to assemble the best team I have ever worked with. As we’ve grown, I’ve found that people thrive when they’re in roles where their passions match their strengths. This is as true for me as it is for our team. I am most energized by exploring new ideas, bringing perspective to life, and helping people find their strengths. Transitioning to a more focused role where I can do what energizes me is my way of putting that belief into practice.
I am excited to bring Tony on board to support our team as an experienced operator and leader as we navigate the next frontier of decentralized sociality. The work that got us here is just the beginning, and I’m grateful to continue working closely with this team and community.
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