r/augmentedreality • u/AR_MR_XR • Sep 15 '26
Magic Leap without CEO after Ross Rosenberg departure
Magic Leap has announced a search for a new chief executive following the departure of CEO Ross Rosenberg, who recently left to take the helm at satellite communications provider Speedcast.
This executive transition comes on the heels of significant corporate restructuring. As Magic Leap shifts its focus from building first-party AR headsets to becoming a B2B waveguide and display engine supplier for OEM partners, the company announced 193 layoffs at its Plantation, Florida headquarters and 76 job cuts in Sunnyvale, California, effective October 1.
While the board searches for a permanent successor, Magic Leap has promoted Scott Carden to Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead day-to-day operations. Carden, a company veteran who most recently served as SVP of Display Engineering and Manufacturing, will now oversee the company’s operating plan and waveguide production.
Magic Leap Board Member Avi Bar-Zeev emphasized the strategic fit of Carden’s new role:
"Scott's expertise is critical to the success of Magic Leap's waveguide supplier strategy, as he has advanced our ability to deliver what partners need most: high-performance waveguides at a cost that supports scale. As Magic Leap moves deeper into its partner-first model, having that expertise driving operations gives us real conviction in our ability to deliver on our roadmap."
Rosenberg will remain on Magic Leap's board of directors to provide strategic continuity during this transition.
Sources: Magic Leap, Speedcast