Snyk CEO bails, wants someone with more AI experience to replace him
The Register
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The CEO of Snyk, Peter McKay, has announced his resignation, citing the need for a new leader with deeper expertise in AI to guide the company through its next phase of growth. McKay, who has led the code review platform since 2015, acknowledged his achievements, including growing the customer base to 4,800 and achieving $325 million in annual revenue. However, he emphasized that Snyk is entering a new era of "hyper-intensive AI innovation," requiring a visionary leader deeply immersed in AI technology.
During his tenure, McKay has positioned Snyk as a pioneer in AI-native security, a shift he describes as a "monumental pivot." He hinted at the significance of this transition by questioning why he should remain, given the vast opportunities ahead. McKay plans to stay engaged until his successor is appointed and will retain a significant shareholder position, ensuring he remains closely tied to the company's future.
This leadership change underscores the growing importance of AI in cybersecurity, a field increasingly driven by technological advancements. For tech enthusiasts, this move highlights Snyk's strategic focus on innovation and its potential to disrupt traditional security practices. The search for a new CEO with extensive AI experience signals that Snyk is prioritizing cutting-edge technology over established methods, positioning itself as a leader in the evolving landscape of AI-driven security solutions.
This shift matters because it reflects broader industry trends where companies are investing heavily
Verticals
tech
Originally published on The Register on 2/20/2026