Whitney Wolfe Herd Returns as Bumble CEO After Reflecting on Burnout and Recovery

Whitney Wolfe Herd, the founder and former CEO of Bumble, returned to lead the company in March 2025 after stepping down due to burnout. Her departure had led to Lidiane Jones taking over as CEO, but Jones resigned after expressing feelings of being overwhelmed. Wolfe Herd’s return was prompted by a candid conversation with Jones and a recognition of shared struggles with burnout.

In a New York Times interview, Wolfe Herd revealed that she initially had no plans to return to Bumble. During her time away, she grappled with existential questions about her identity and adopted daily meditation practices. Despite stepping back, she remained involved through board calls, maintaining a connection to the company from the sidelines.

Wolfe Herd dismissed rumors of conflict between herself and Jones, emphasizing that the media often seeks to portray tension between women leaders. She stated, “There’s no riff,” highlighting mutual respect and understanding between them. Both leaders experienced similar challenges, including working excessive hours and facing the pressures of leading a high-profile tech company.

Bumble has faced recent challenges, including a 7.7% year-over-year decline in first-quarter earnings reported in 2025. Wolfe Herd acknowledged the company’s struggles and expressed a deep personal connection to Bumble, describing it as “an extension of me to some degree.” She conveyed the difficulty of watching the company’s performance decline from its peak and her commitment to steering it back to growth.

In addition to her professional responsibilities, Wolfe Herd shared personal news, announcing she is expecting her third child. This highlights her ability to balance high-level leadership with personal life commitments, an inspiring example for many in the tech industry.

Lessons on Leadership and Burnout in Tech

Wolfe Herd’s experience underscores the importance of recognizing burnout and taking proactive steps to address it. Her journey from stepping down to returning as CEO demonstrates resilience and the critical need for sustainable leadership practices in fast-moving tech companies. It also highlights the value of open communication and support among leaders.

For tech companies navigating leadership transitions and market pressures, Wolfe Herd’s story offers valuable insights into maintaining company culture and momentum. It also stresses the importance of mental health and work-life balance at the executive level, which can directly impact company performance and innovation.

As Bumble looks to regain its growth trajectory, Wolfe Herd’s leadership will be pivotal in steering the company through its current challenges. Her openness about burnout and recovery can inspire other tech leaders to prioritize sustainable work habits and foster supportive environments.