IWG Founder Mark Dixon Steps Down as CEO After Nearly Four Decades
The world’s largest flexible workspace company, International Workplace Group (IWG) founder Mark Dixon has stepped down as chief executive officer after nearly 40 years. Dixon has become executive chair, while Christian Schmitz has been appointed chief executive officer with immediate effect.
According to IWG, the transition is designed to provide continuity while preserving Dixon’s industry expertise and long-term strategic perspective. As executive chair, he will continue to provide strategic guidance to the board and act as an adviser to Schmitz. Douglas Sutherland, previously non-executive chair, has been appointed deputy chair.
“The business continues to perform in line with expectations and we are in a period of enormous opportunity for IWG. As demand for flexible workspaces continues to grow worldwide, the business is exceptionally well positioned to capitalise on this trend,” Dixon said.
Christian Schmitz joined IWG in 2025 as chief transformation officer and later became global head of all regions. According to the company, he has helped accelerate operational execution, strengthen performance and advance strategic priorities.
The company, which is listed on the London Stock Exchange, has been focusing on an asset-light expansion strategy and continues to face higher debt and operating costs. Reuters reported that the leadership changes come as IWG seeks to strengthen profitability and manage costs amid a challenging economic environment, as companies navigate the impact of the Middle East conflict and AI-driven changes in workplace strategy.
Dixon launched the company with a single centre in Brussels. Since then, IWG has grown into the world’s largest flexible workspace operator, with around 6,000 locations open and in the pipeline across more than 120 countries under brands including Regus, Spaces, HQ and Signature. The company counts around 83% of Fortune 500 companies among its customers, according to company announcement.
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