Swedish telecommunications giant Ericsson has announced that Chief Executive Officer Borje Ekholm will step down at the end of September 2026, concluding a transformative nine-year tenure at the helm of one of Swedens most iconic companies. Company veteran Per Narvinger has been named as his successor, effective October 1.
A Legacy of Transformation
Ekholms time as CEO has been nothing short of remarkable. Taking over in 2017, he inherited a company facing significant challenges in an increasingly competitive global telecom equipment market. Under his leadership, Ericsson underwent a dramatic turnaround, returning to profitability and reestablishing itself as a leader in 5G technology and network infrastructure.
During his tenure, Ericsson shares surged as the company secured major 5G contracts worldwide, invested heavily in research and development, and streamlined its operations. Ekholm was widely credited with restoring investor confidence and positioning Ericsson at the forefront of the global connectivity revolution.
After more than nine years as President and CEO, and 20 years as a member of the Board of Directors, Ekholm will retire from the company at the end of September. His departure marks the end of an era for the Stockholm-based firm.
Per Narvinger: The New Face of Ericsson
Per Narvinger, a seasoned Ericsson executive with deep roots in the company, will take the reins on October 1. Narvinger brings decades of experience in the telecommunications sector and is well-known within the organization for his strategic vision and operational expertise.
The leadership transition comes at a critical time for Ericsson, as the company continues to expand its 5G footprint globally and explores new opportunities in areas such as enterprise networking, cloud infrastructure, and the Internet of Things. Narvingers appointment signals continuity in strategy while bringing fresh energy to the role.
Swedens Tech Identity and National Pride
Ericsson is more than just a company in Sweden — it is a national institution. Founded in 1876 in Stockholm, Ericsson has been a cornerstone of Swedish innovation and industrial identity for nearly 150 years. The company is a source of immense national pride, and its leadership changes are closely watched by Swedes at home and abroad.
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What This Means Going Forward
The CEO transition at Ericsson will be one of the most significant corporate leadership changes in Sweden this year. Investors, employees, and industry observers will be watching closely as Narvinger takes the helm and charts the companys course for the next chapter.
With 6G research already underway and the global demand for connectivity continuing to grow, Ericssons next era promises to be just as eventful as the last. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.