Ryan Holmes Reassumes Hootsuite CEO Role After Six-Year Hiatus

Ryan Holmes, the founder of Hootsuite, has reassumed the role of CEO on an interim basis after a six-year hiatus. His return comes after the departure of Irina Novoselsky, who held the position since early 2023. In a LinkedIn statement, Holmes expressed his enthusiasm for leading the company once more, citing significant opportunities in the social media landscape.

CEO Transition at Hootsuite

Irina Novoselsky confirmed her departure via LinkedIn, highlighting a return to profitability during her tenure. She also noted the company’s investment in growth by acquiring Talkwalker, a social listening technology firm. The acquisition aims to enhance Hootsuite’s capabilities in analyzing social media sentiment.

Controversial Contracts

Hootsuite recently faced backlash due to its contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Protests erupted at the company’s Vancouver headquarters, following reports of a $95,000 pilot project initiated in September 2025. This project was part of ongoing collaborations with the Department of Homeland Security.

• Contract with ICE rekindles controversy.
• Talkwalker acquisition central to expansion in U.S. government sector.
• Seneca Strategic Partners holds a $2.8 million contract utilizing Hootsuite services.

During her leadership, Novoselsky defended the company’s decision to work with ICE, stating that Hootsuite engages with various organizations that may be deemed polarizing. In response to previous employee backlash, she reinforced the company’s commitment to its terms of service.

Holmes’ Entrepreneurial Journey

Holmes established Hootsuite in 2008 while leading his marketing consultancy, Invoke Media. The platform quickly evolved into a key player in social media management, generating $1 million in monthly revenue by 2011. It secured approximately $250 million in venture capital by 2014, making it one of Canada’s prominent technology firms.

Despite the company’s success, Hootsuite encountered significant challenges, including high-profile exits and missed sales targets. Holmes stepped down as CEO in July 2020, making way for Tom Keiser, who sought to navigate the company through turbulent times.

With Holmes resuming the CEO role, many are curious about Hootsuite’s future direction and growth strategy in the evolving tech landscape.