Paradox Interactive has announced a management transition, with current CEO Fredrik Wester stepping down and Deputy CEO Mattias Lilja set to officially take over on January 4, 2027. Until the transition is complete, Wester will continue to lead the company; after stepping down, he will remain on the board, focusing on the company's long-term development while retaining his status as the largest shareholder.
Wester stated that he never planned to serve as CEO for life, and his goal in recent times has been to lay a solid foundation before handing over the reins for the company's next phase. Since his return to the position, Paradox has streamlined its strategy, rebuilt its product pipeline, and developed business solutions, with Lilja playing a central role in these efforts.
Wester first became CEO of Paradox in 2009, stepped down in 2018 to serve as Executive Chairman of the Board, and returned to the role in 2021. Lilja also joined the company in 2009 as Paradox's first producer, later overseeing studio and publishing operations, and serving as Chief Operating Officer.
Lilja stated that upon taking over, he will further invest in core businesses, drive game design, strengthen collaboration with players, and develop more tools and services for mod authors and players. This leadership transition comes as Paradox adjusts its product and operational strategies: the company previously recorded a 355.3 million SEK impairment on project costs due to the underperformance of Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, and reported a 162% year-on-year decline in operating profit.