Per Narvinger Takes Over as President and CEO of Ericsson Following Börje Ekholm's Departure
Leadership Transition at Ericsson
On June 16, 2026, Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) announced a significant transition in its leadership, appointing Per Narvinger as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1, 2026. This change comes as Börje Ekholm, the outgoing CEO, steps down after nearly a decade of service in the role, continuing as an executive advisor until mid-2027.
Per Narvinger, who joined Ericsson in 1997, has a wealth of experience spanning various segments of the telecommunications and ICT industries. His career at the company has included senior leadership roles in research, product management, sales, and most recently, as the Head of Business Area Networks, a position he has held since March 2025. He also led the Business Area Cloud Software and Services prior to that, illustrating his comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Jan Carlson, the Chair of Ericsson's Board of Directors, expressed confidence in Narvinger’s ability to steer the company through its next chapter. Carlson praised Narvinger’s deep technical acumen and his proven commercial expertise, emphasizing his readiness to assume this pivotal role during critical times for Ericsson amidst rapid technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence and connectivity solutions.
In his acceptance statement, Narvinger expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead a company that has been his professional home for nearly three decades. He acknowledged the achievements of Börje Ekholm, who played a significant role in transforming Ericsson and fortifying its position as a leader in the telecommunications landscape.
Börje Ekholm has been a dynamic force at Ericsson, credited with steering the company through significant challenges and innovations over the past nine years. In his farewell comments, Ekholm reflected on the transformative journey that the company has undertaken, highlighting the innovations in mobile connectivity and the transitioning of networks for AI advancements. He has been instrumental in positioning Ericsson as a key player in the competition on a global scale.
As the industry continues to evolve, Narvinger’s appointment reflects Ericsson's commitment to maintaining its edge in technology and the provision of advanced connectivity solutions. With the integration of innovative technologies into everyday communication, the leadership change signifies a fresh perspective towards navigating future challenges and opportunities within the sector.
Overall, the Board of Directors has managed this leadership shift with thoughtful planning, ensuring a robust governance structure remains in place. This orderly transition is not only a testament to Donald's strategic vision but also a reflection of Ericsson’s overarching strategy to keep pace with rapidly changing market demands.
As Ericsson embarks on this new chapter with Per Narvinger at the helm, industry insiders and stakeholders will undoubtedly keep a close watch on how his leadership influences the company's trajectory amidst the burgeoning technological landscape. With a legacy of innovation and a commitment to customer value, the future looks promising as Ericsson prepares for its next phase under new leadership.