Justin McLeod, the founder and CEO of Hinge, tore his company down a decade ago and rebuilt after realizing the dating app was more about engaging than communicating real information. Now, ten years later, McLeod says he’s had another revelation — but instead of lowering the hinge, he’s set off a new venture entirely.
MCLEOD’s next EXECURE, an AI-Powered Toniable company called Overture, will spark his fast-paced career as CEO of Hinge. He will be replaced by Jackie Jantos, the Company’s current president and chief marketing officer.
McLeod admitted that technological advances risk damaging relationships as users turn to chatbots instead of human friendliness. “Ai should always stand behind us, not between us,” he said in a blog post announcing the departure. His new company aims to use technology to create something “less like a social platform” and “like the experience of working with a star maker for everyone.”
Cleod and a small team within Hinge have been building the project for nearly a year. The Standalone company has support from Match Group, Hinge’s parent company, which participated in pre-seed funding, plans to raise its first round of funding early next year and will hold a majority ownership stake. Proo CEO Spencer Rascoff will also join Overture’s board.
“We’re proud to bring Overtone inside Hinge and now lead it around for funding as it builds its next venture,” Rascoff said in a statement. “With a strong foundation and leadership team in place, Hinge is the perfect next step for Jackie’s leadership.”
Hinge is getting a new leader
Janos, who previously worked at Spotify and Coca-Cola, joined Hinge in 2021 and has served as President since March. His tenure has been marked by programs focused on Gen Z
As he assumes the role of CEO, Jantos will oversee the continued integration of Ai as the company continues to release technology to enhance customization and improve security. Earlier this week, hinge launched a new AI tool designed to help users start conversations with each other.
Despite the industry-wide challenges facing the Internet, Hinge continues to grow. The Match Group, which also owns tinder and okcupid, reported a 5-year-plus drop in paying users in the most recent quarter. But the hinge remains agricultural, paying users 17 percent.
Hinge will be advised by McLeod in March to ensure a smooth transition. “The company’s momentum, which includes tracking to reach $1 billion in revenue by 2027, gives me full confidence in where Hinge is headed,” said McLLMOD, calling his work building the foundation “the privilege of my life.”