MercadoLibre's Leadership Transition: Galperin Passes Baton to Szarfsztejn

MercadoLibre has announced that CEO and co-founder Marcos Galperin will step down in 2026, making way for Ariel Szarfsztejn, current commerce head. Galperin will take on a strategic role as executive chairman. Szarfsztejn joined the company in 2017 and became commerce head in 2023.

Latin American e-commerce powerhouse MercadoLibre revealed a significant shift in its leadership on Wednesday, announcing that CEO and co-founder Marcos Galperin will be succeeded by current commerce director Ariel Szarfsztejn in 2026.

Although transitioning from his current position, Galperin, a billionaire and influential entrepreneur, will remain with the company in a strategic capacity as executive chairman of the board. This change is part of a broader plan to continue the company's strong market presence.

Meanwhile, Szarfsztejn's experience with MercadoLibre, where he has served since 2017 and held multiple roles before becoming leader of commerce in 2023, positions him as a fitting successor to Galperin.

(With inputs from agencies.)