Former Zillow co-founder and CEO Spencer Rascoff has been appointed chief executive of Dallas-based Match Group, effective immediately.
Rascoff, who has served as a member of Match Group’s board since March 2024, succeeds Bernard Kim, who is stepping down as CEO and as a member of the board. Match Group’s portfolio of over 20 brands includes category-leading global dating apps Tinder, Hinge, OkCupid, and Pairs.
“Spencer is an exceptional leader with deep experience in growing consumer technology businesses,” Tom McInerney, chairman of Match Group, said in a statement. “During his time on the Board, Spencer has demonstrated a strong strategic perspective and deep understanding of Match Group’s brands and opportunities. We are confident in his ability to drive the company’s next phase of innovation and growth.”
McInerney also noted the contributions of the outgoing Kim, who had been the company’s CEO since May 2023.
“The board also wants to thank BK for his leadership and contributions to Match Group, including advancing the company’s approach to innovation,” he said. “We appreciate all he has done for the company during his tenure.”
Former Match Group CEO Bernard Kim [Images: Match Group, Kathy Schuh Photography]
Track record in consumer tech
A seasoned tech entrepreneur, Rascoff has a strong track record of building and scaling consumer tech businesses. As co-founder and CEO of Zillow Group for more than a decade, Rascoff transformed it into a category-defining platform, expanding its offerings and significantly growing its market value.
He also co-founded Hotwire, a breakthrough online travel marketplace, and Pacaso, a proptech company reshaping second-home ownership. Rascoff also has been an active investor and adviser to numerous high-growth technology companies across marketplaces, media, and AI.
“I’m honored to step into the CEO role at such a pivotal and dynamic time for Match Group,” Rascoff said in a statement. “This is a company built on innovation, and its portfolio of iconic brands continues to redefine how people connect. As the industry leader, Match Group has set the standard for innovation in dating and relationships, and I’m excited to build on that momentum to bring new experiences to tens of millions of users worldwide.”
Rascoff expressed enthusiasm about Match.
“I look forward to working with our teams to foster a culture that embraces creativity and continuous innovation, ensuring we continue to shape the future of dating and relationships,” he said.
The next phase of growth
Kim said that his time leading Match Group was an “incredible experience.”
“I’m deeply grateful to our teams for their passion, innovation, and dedication to helping people connect,” Kim said in a statement. “I’ve known Spencer for a long time and have no doubt that he’ll bring great energy and vision to Match Group. I’m excited to see all that Spencer and the team will accomplish in the years ahead.”
At Investor Day in December, Match Group said it outlined the company’s vision for the next phase of growth, emphasizing advancements in AI-powered features and new product innovations to enhance user experiences.
Under Rascoff’s leadership, Match Group said it will continue executing on those initiatives, ensuring its brands remain at the forefront of digital connections while driving long-term value for users and shareholders.
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Veteran executives Laura Jones and Spencer Rascoff have been appointed to the Match Group's board of directors, effective immediately. Match Group Chairman Tom McInerney expressed enthusiasm about the new board members, highlighting the unique contributions they're poised to bring. Welcoming Jones and Rascoof is a step towards enhancing the board's collective expertise, which is crucial for its strategic goals, McInerney said in a statement. He noted Jones' expertise in shaping brands and fueling growth through her marketing prowess, and lauded Rascoff's entrepreneurial success in scaling consumer internet businesses. "This is a time of great opportunity for Match Group, and we…
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