Börje Ekholm will step down as CEO of Ericsson at the end of September 2026 [2].
The transition marks a significant leadership change for one of the world's largest telecommunications equipment providers. As the company navigates the global rollout of new network technologies, the shift to a veteran internal successor suggests a desire for stability and continuity in its strategic direction.
Ericsson said the leadership change on June 16, 2026 [3]. Per Narvinger, who previously served as Executive Vice President, will take over as the new President and CEO [1]. The appointment of Narvinger ensures that the company's top role remains in the hands of a long-term insider familiar with the firm's operational complexities.
Ekholm's departure comes after he led the company for more than nine years [1]. During his tenure, the Stockholm-based firm managed significant global shifts in the mobile infrastructure market. His decision to exit the role follows nearly a decade of navigating the company through various geopolitical and technical challenges.
While the announcement provides a clear timeline for the handover, the company has not detailed specific shifts in its current product roadmap. The transition period will last through the third quarter of the year, allowing Narvinger to integrate into the chief executive role before the end of September 2026 [2].
This leadership change occurs as Ericsson continues to compete for dominance in the 5G market and explores future connectivity standards. The appointment of a company veteran indicates that the board intends to maintain the current trajectory established during the previous nine years of leadership.
“Börje Ekholm will step down as CEO of Ericsson at the end of September 2026”
The appointment of Per Narvinger, a long-term company veteran, signals that Ericsson is prioritizing institutional knowledge and strategic continuity over a radical change in direction. By selecting an internal successor after Ekholm's lengthy tenure, the company aims to minimize disruption to its global operations and maintain steady relationships with telecommunications providers during a critical phase of network evolution.
