Bluesky CEO Jay Graber Steps Down, Toni Schneider Takes Over

Bluesky, the decentralized social media platform, is undergoing a leadership shift. Jay Graber, the company’s first CEO, has stepped down to focus on innovation, while venture capitalist Toni Schneider assumes the role of interim CEO. This transition marks a pivotal moment for Bluesky as it navigates growth and competition in the social media landscape.

Leadership Transition at Bluesky

Jay Graber joined Bluesky in 2019 as part of its early research phase within Twitter. She became CEO in 2021 when the platform spun off independently. Graber emphasized her commitment to innovation, stating, “As Bluesky matures, the company needs a seasoned operator focused on scaling and execution, while I return to what I do best: building new things.”

Toni Schneider, a veteran in tech leadership, will lead Bluesky’s next phase. Previously CEO of Automattic (parent company of WordPress), Schneider brings experience scaling open-source platforms. He aims to position Bluesky as “the foundation for a whole new generation of user-owned networks.”

Bluesky’s Growth and Challenges

Bluesky’s user base grew from 25 million to over 40 million in 2025, according to its Transparency Report. However, it remains a niche player compared to Meta’s Threads, which boasts 400 million users. Schneider’s challenge is to balance growth with Bluesky’s progressive ethos, which has drawn both praise and criticism for its ideological stance.

Board’s Role in the Transition

Bluesky’s board, including co-founder Jeremie Miller and venture capitalist Kinjal Shah, will oversee the search for a permanent CEO. Graber will retain influence as chief innovation officer, focusing on the platform’s technology. Jack Dorsey, a former board member, left in 2024, adding complexity to the leadership dynamics.

What’s Next for Bluesky?

Schneider’s immediate focus is scaling Bluesky’s infrastructure while maintaining its open-source roots. The platform’s success hinges on attracting institutions and users who value decentralized social networks. As Graber transitions to innovation, the company must prove it can sustain growth without compromising its mission.