Paradox Interactive is undergoing a major leadership change. The company’s Board of Directors has appointed Mattias Lilja, currently serving as Deputy CEO, as the new CEO effective January 4, 2027. Lilja will succeed Fredrik Wester, who has decided to step down from the position.
According to information Oyun Günlüğü obtained from Paradox Interactive’s official announcement, Fredrik Wester informed the Board of his decision and will continue focusing on the company’s long-term development as a member of the Board. To ensure an orderly transition, Wester will remain CEO until Lilja assumes the position.
Fredrik Wester stays on the Board
The company describes the change as a natural evolution of how Paradox is already led. Since 2021, Mattias Lilja has taken on growing responsibility for operations and the execution of the company’s strategy, while Fredrik Wester has increasingly focused on long-term development and goals. Paradox stated that its strategic direction remains firm, and Wester remains the company’s largest shareholder.
Wester said his plan was never to be CEO for life and that his goal was to build a solid foundation before passing the baton. He noted that since his return as CEO, the company has streamlined its strategy, rebuilt its pipeline and developed its commercial offering, adding that Lilja played a central role in this work and that now is the right time to hand over.
Chairman of the Board Håkan Sjunnesson thanked Wester for his leadership, highlighting that Paradox is in a strong position at a time when much of the industry faces major challenges. Sjunnesson said Lilja, who combines a strong vision with deep operational and commercial expertise, is the right person to lead the company forward.
Lilja outlines the next chapter
Mattias Lilja said he approaches the role with great humility and that Paradox has a unique DNA in deep and engaging strategy and management games. Lilja stated that the company will step up the pace, invest further in its core business and push the boundaries of its game design. He also pledged to work more closely with players, develop more and better tools and services for both modders and players, and keep sharpening the organization with player value in focus.
Mattias Lilja’s history at Paradox
Mattias Lilja joined Paradox in 2009 as the company’s first producer and has played a central role in its development ever since. Over the years, he headed Paradox’s studio organization, led Publishing and later served as COO. Under his leadership, the company launched several franchises that shaped its current portfolio, including Cities: Skylines, Hearts of Iron 4 and Stellaris. Lilja returned to Paradox when Fredrik Wester took over as CEO in 2021 and has since focused on the company’s strategic and cultural development, as well as building an efficient core business with close player relationships.
