Hootsuite Founder Ryan Holmes Returns as Interim CEO
Ryan Holmes, the founder of social media management platform Hootsuite, has returned as interim CEO, replacing outgoing chief executive Irina Novoselsky. The leadership transition was announced via LinkedIn posts by both executives, with a company spokesperson describing the move as occurring from a position of strength amidst profitability and growth. Holmes stated his return aims to accelerate organizational transformation and drive AI innovation. Novoselsky’s departure follows significant backlash against Hootsuite for providing technology to the US Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Although the company denied her exit was related to the controversial contract, Novoselsky had previously defended the deal internally despite public criticism regarding ICE's enforcement tactics. This marks Holmes' return to the role he held until 2019. The change occurs after Hootsuite laid off 20% of its workforce in late 2025 and acquired Talkwalker to enhance its AI capabilities. Holmes expressed enthusiasm about building on the momentum achieved under Novoselsky’s three-year tenure, focusing on data insights and product-led growth in the evolving social media landscape.
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Hootsuite Founder Ryan Holmes Returns as Interim CEO
Ryan Holmes, the founder of social media management platform Hootsuite, has returned as interim CEO, replacing outgoing chief executive Irina Novoselsky. The leadership transition was announced via LinkedIn posts by both executives, with a company spokesperson describing the move as occurring from a position of strength amidst profitability and growth. Holmes stated his return aims to accelerate organizational transformation and drive AI innovation. Novoselsky’s departure follows significant backlash against Hootsuite for providing technology to the US Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Although the company denied her exit was related to the controversial contract, Novoselsky had previously defended the deal internally despite public criticism regarding ICE's enforcement tactics. This marks Holmes' return to the role he held until 2019. The change occurs after Hootsuite laid off 20% of its workforce in late 2025 and acquired Talkwalker to enhance its AI capabilities. Holmes expressed enthusiasm about building on the momentum achieved under Novoselsky’s three-year tenure, focusing on data insights and product-led growth in the evolving social media landscape.
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