WeWork CEO David Tolley Steps Down, Cushman & Wakefield’s John Santora To Take Over

WeWork announced today that its CEO David Tolley will step down after the company completes its bankruptcy proceedings. This marks the culmination of a comprehensive global restructuring process, which included strategic revamps and exiting several locations, according to Reuters. 

WeWork also named their new CEO John Santora, a seasoned professional in the commercial real estate sector. Prior to this role, he held the position of Tri-State Chairman at the global real estate services company Cushman & Wakefield. 

This signals a fresh start for the firm once hailed as the most valuable U.S. startup. The company once expanded rapidly but suffered massive losses due to expensive leases and a sharp decline in demand caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which ultimately led to WeWork filing for bankruptcy protection in November 2023.

Last month, a U.S. bankruptcy judge approved WeWork’s restructuring plan, enabling the company to eliminate $4 billion in debt and transfer its equity to a group of lenders and real estate technology firm Yardi Systems. Tolley, who joined WeWork as a board member in February 2023 before becoming CEO, has navigated the company through this tumultuous period, marked by significant operational and financial restructuring.

Earlier this year, WeWork turned down a $650 million buyout offer from co-founder Adam Neumann, deeming it insufficient to satisfy the demands of its lenders. Post-bankruptcy, the company estimates its equity to be worth approximately $750 million, starkly contrasting with its $47 billion valuation in 2019. The failed initial public offering attempt in 2019 also tarnished its reputation.

How WeWork adapts and innovates under its new leadership will influence broader trends in the flexible workspace ecosystem as companies the industry continues to grow.