Babbel co-founder Markus Witte is returning to lead the company, succeeding CEO Arne Schepker.
Babbel co-founder Markus Witte is returning to lead the company, succeeding CEO Arne Schepker.
Blog Article
Arne Schepker, CEO of the Berlin-based language learning platform Babbel, is stepping down, making way for co-founder and former CEO Markus Witte to return and guide the company "into a new phase while patiently searching for Arne’s successor," the company announced. This next phase will involve a significant focus on AI.
Witte will not immediately take on the CEO title but will serve as Executive Chairman and Managing Director. After five years as Babbel’s sole CEO — preceded by a period as co-CEO alongside Witte — Schepker chose not to renew his contract. He explained that he couldn’t fully commit to the role, which he believes requires complete dedication: “You need 180 percent commitment, and I just couldn’t get there,” he said.
Schepker, who joined Babbel as CMO in 2015, cited two main reasons for his decision. Firstly, he felt he was seeing repeated cycles in his responsibilities, and the excitement had worn off. Secondly, he believed the timing was right as the company transitions into its next phase, allowing him to spend time traveling with his family over the next year.
During Schepker’s leadership, Babbel’s revenue grew sixfold, reaching around $300 million with a nearly 1,000-member team. One of his proudest achievements is the company’s free support for language learning, particularly for students during the pandemic and Ukrainian refugees.
Looking ahead, Witte envisions AI playing a central role in Babbel’s future. Though the platform has previously utilized machine learning, it has never branded itself as an AI company, instead emphasizing the expertise of its language teachers. But with AI advancing rapidly, Witte believes Babbel is positioned to leverage both its technological capabilities and deep knowledge of language learning to create more personalized, effective educational experiences.
Witte also wants to enhance the company culture by fostering “moments of delight” for employees and users, aiming to bring joy and engagement across all levels of the business.