Swedish telecoms titan Ericsson will see its chief executive step down in September, ending a nine‑year tenure that steadied the company after a string of scandals. Börje Ekholm, who took the helm in 2017, will hand reins to Per Narvinger, the current head of business area networks, as the firm pivots toward 6G.

Ekholm’s exit follows revelations that Ericsson may have paid the terrorist group ISIS to secure transport routes in Iraq, a claim that sent shares down 14 % on the day. Earlier, the company paid $1 billion to settle U.S. corruption probes and later a $206.7 million fine for failing to report properly.

Since taking charge, Ekholm has guided Ericsson past turmoil, clinching a $14 billion contract with AT&T and lifting the stock to a five‑year high of SKr128, more than double the low hit during the scandal. The move signals a shift toward leadership in 6G and AI‑driven connectivity solutions.

Narvinger’s appointment comes as regulators tighten scrutiny on telecoms’ security practices, while investors weigh the company’s ability to capitalize on the next wave of connectivity. With a clear succession plan, Ericsson positions itself to navigate emerging regulatory landscapes and technological shifts.