Paradox appoints Mattias Lilja CEO, effective January 4, 2027
Key Facts
Paradox Interactive’s board has appointed deputy CEO Mattias Lilja as the company’s new chief executive, effective January 4, 2027, succeeding Fredrik Wester, according to a company announcement submitted for publication on November 11, 2026, at 18:25 Central European Time. The decision marks a leadership transition to an executive who has helped manage the company’s operations and implement its strategy in recent years. Wester will remain CEO until Lilja takes over, which the company said is intended to ensure an orderly transition. Paradox did not announce a change in its strategic direction, saying it remains unchanged. The appointment date sets a clear timetable for the handover, while Wester will remain involved in the company’s governance after leaving the executive role.
After stepping down as CEO, Wester will remain a member of Paradox’s board and focus on the company’s long-term development, according to the announcement. He also remains its largest shareholder, keeping him involved in its ownership structure and board after executive responsibility passes to Lilja. These arrangements separate the end of Wester’s day-to-day management role from his continued involvement in overseeing the company’s long-term course. The announcement did not cite a change in strategic direction, confirming that it remains unchanged. The handover, the company said, is part of an orderly transition that begins when Lilja takes office in January.
Lilja has been part of Paradox’s history since 2009, when he joined as the company’s first producer, and the company says he has since played a pivotal role in its development. Over the course of his career, he led studio organization and publishing, then served as chief operating officer, among other roles. In April 2024, he was appointed deputy CEO, tasked with driving operational development and supporting the company’s strategic focus areas. Paradox said he has taken on increasing responsibility for operations and strategy execution since 2021. These roles provide an executive background for the move to CEO, with experience across development, publishing and operations.
Chairman Håkan Sjunnesson linked Lilja’s appointment to his leadership and commercial experience, saying he “combines a strong vision with deep experience in operations and commercial business, and is fully prepared to take on the role.” The assessment reflects the company’s emphasis on his operational experience alongside his vision, as executive oversight passes to him after a period in which his responsibilities within the group grew. The announcement did not point to a review of the company’s priorities, instead confirming that its strategic direction remains unchanged. The clarification accompanies the CEO change, providing a framework for management continuity during the transition. Responsibility for the practical execution of these priorities will rest with the new leadership once the appointment takes effect.
Lilja said his plans in the new role include continuing to invest in the company’s core business, working more closely with players, and providing more tools and services for modders and players. These priorities put the development of the core business and engagement with the gaming community at the forefront of what he has outlined for his next phase. His plans include investing in Paradox’s core business, alongside expanding the tools and services it offers modders and players. The company did not specify investment amounts or implementation dates in the announcement. The plans take effect when he assumes the role on January 4, 2027, while Wester remains CEO until that date.
Games launched under Lilja’s leadership include “Cities: Skylines,” “Hearts of Iron 4” and “Stellaris,” according to Paradox. The company thus links his management experience to his previous oversight of products in its portfolio, without announcing changes to its game lineup or dates for new releases in the appointment statement. The new role will begin after a transition period during which Wester remains CEO. After the handover, Wester will continue as a board member and focus on long-term development, while Lilja leads the executive team. The transition announcement comes alongside the company’s confirmation that its strategic direction has not changed.