Mozilla is moving forward. After having to deal with the chaos over JavaScript creator and Mozilla cofounder Brendan Eich’s perceived “anti-gay” views that caused him to step down as CEO just 11 days after being appointed, Mozilla has named a new interim CEO and reshaped its board of directors.
(Related: Newly appointed Mozilla CEO Brendan Eich steps down)
Long time Mozilla supporter and former CMO Chris Beard has been announced as acting CEO to the company, along with securing a place on its board of directors.
“In this time of transition, there is no better person to lead us,” wrote Mitchell Baker, executive chairwoman at Mozilla, in a blog post. “Chris has one of the clearest visions of how to take the Mozilla mission and turn it into programs and activities and product ideas that I have ever seen.”
In the past, Beard held leadership roles overseeing developer and community engagement activities, including the initial launch of Firefox for Android and Firefox OS—the company’s mobile operating system.
“Mozilla needs to act quickly and decisively,” said Baker. “This is key for any leader at Mozilla, including our CEO, whether interim or otherwise. Chris’ experience and insight is highly aligned with our goals.”
Appointing Beard is part of Mozilla’s plan to expand its leadership.
“Next steps include a long-term plan for the CEO role, adding board members who can help Mozilla succeed, and continuing our efforts to actively support each Mozillian to reach his or her full potential as a leader,” Baker wrote.
She also suggested that Beard was being considered for holding the CEO position on an official basis.
