Automattic is currently facing a conflict as employees express their disagreement with the company’s CEO, Matt Mallenweg, amidst a legal battle with WP Engine. Following the dismissal of some team members, Mallenweg offered generous compensation for voluntary departure, while also threatening termination without payment for those who share information with the press.
In early October, Mallenweg offered employees a choice: either support the management or leave the company. Those who chose to leave were promised six months’ salary or $30,000. Despite over 150 employees accepting the offer and leaving, many stayed, citing financial constraints or limited job prospects. The atmosphere within the company was described by remaining employees as filled with paranoia and fear.
According to reports by 404 Media, Mallenweg recently announced on Slack a new offer of nine months’ compensation for voluntary departures. Furthermore, he implied that employees who continue communicating with the press risk facing dismissal.
The conflict between Automattic and WP Engine has been ongoing for several months, with Mallenweg accusing WP Engine of harming the WordPress ecosystem, leading to mutual claims and legal battles. In retaliation, WP Engine accused Mallenweg of power abuse and blackmail.
Additional allegations surfaced regarding the interception of employees’ emails related to their registration on the Blind platform for anonymous workplace discussions. Sources claim that Mallenweg redirected emails containing confirmation codes from Blind, leading to suspicions of surveillance among employees.
In response, employees created their own platform called Anonymattic for internal discussions. However, critics argue that management retains the ability to delete messages on this platform, unlike on Blind.
Despite facing criticism for his actions, Mallenweg remains steadfast in defending his chosen strategies. He recently introduced a Chekbox on WordPress.org, requiring users to confirm their lack of ties with WP Engine during registration. In Slack, Mallenweg teased upcoming innovations, prompting mixed reactions among employees. Many current and former employees believe that Mallenweg’s actions reflect his detachment from reality and disregard for the community’s contributions to WordPress’s success.