In a significant leadership transition, Discord co-founder and CEO Jason Citron is stepping down from his role. The announcement signals a new chapter for the popular communication platform, with Citron remaining on the board as an advisor.
Taking the helm on April 28th is Humam Sakhnini, a seasoned executive with experience at Activision Blizzard and King. This transition comes at a pivotal time for Discord, as the company reportedly explores the possibility of an IPO.
Citron addressed the transition in a message to employees, stating, “The job of a CEO is constantly evolving… as I look at what is needed of Discord’s CEO over the next few years, I realize that it’s time for me to literally ‘hire myself out of a job.’” He emphasized his belief in Sakhnini’s ability to lead Discord into its next phase of growth.
Discord’s other co-founder, Stanislav Vishnevskiy, will continue in his role as Chief Technology Officer, ensuring continuity in the company’s technological direction.
Sakhnini expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, saying, “I look forward to working with Stan and Discord’s talented team to scale our business while staying true to the company’s core mission and the special connection it has with player communities.” He also highlighted the growing impact of gaming on entertainment and culture, positioning Discord as a central player in that evolution.
While Discord has not confirmed any immediate IPO plans, Citron acknowledged that Sakhnini’s appointment is “a step in that direction,” suggesting that the company is preparing for potential future growth and public offering.
This leadership change marks an important milestone for Discord, a platform that has grown to connect millions of users and play a vital role in online communities.
Tags: Discord, Jason Citron, Humam Sakhnini, CEO, Leadership Change, Gaming, Tech News, IPO