In recent shocking news, Shery Sandberg made an announcement on Wednesday that she will leave Facebook (now Meta) after a 14-year tenure. Sheryl Sandberg has been a key team member, who helped steer scandal-prone Facebook to advertising dominance.
Sheryl Sandberg, 52, has not only been one of the most influential women in Silicon Valley but also around the world. Her news of departure comes at a time when the social media company faces an uncertain future and fierce competition.
Sheryl Sandberg Leaving Facebook After Spending 14 Years
Sandberg shared the news on her Facebook page that she is stepping down as chief operating officer, but would remain on the board of parent company Meta. Sharing the news about her new chapter on her Facebook page, Sheryl said: “When I took this job in 2008, I hoped I would be in this role for five years. Fourteen years later, it is time for me to write the next chapter of my life. I am not entirely sure what the future will bring – I have learned no one ever is. But I know it will include focusing more on my foundation and philanthropic work, which is more important to me than ever given how critical this moment is for women. And as Tom and I get married this summer, parenting our expanded family of five children. Over the next few months, Mark and I will transition my direct reports and I will leave the company this fall. I still believe as strongly as ever in our mission, and I am honored that I will continue to serve on Meta’s board of directors.”
Mark Zuckerberg said in the Facebook post said, “She has taught me so much and she has been there for many of the important moments in my life, both personally and professionally…I’m going to miss running this company with Sheryl.”
In the midst of controversies and accusations that it is doing more harm and good, the social media giant is trying hard to rebrand itself as a virtual visionary, who sees the internet as a metaverse. The company has also been blamed for putting profit over user privacy and even the good of society.
The company is facing fierce competition from the likes of TikTok, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, and even Apple now. The Facebook social network is increasingly seen as a place for older people to connect.
Zuckerberg also mentioned that Sandberg’s role won’t be replaced as it was at the company, but that Javier Olivan will become Meta’s next chief operating officer. But the next COO will be more traditional, different from the close second-in-command status Sandberg holds. In his note, Zuckerberg said, “I don’t plan to replace Sheryl’s role in our existing structure…I’m not sure that would be possible since she’s a superstar who defined the COO role in her own unique way.”
After the news of Sandberg leaving, the stock market reacted and Meta shares fell more than two percent. It is seen as another blow to a stock value that has plummeted after worries emerged the company’s regular growth was coming to an end.
And, as Sheryl Sandberg embarks on her new journey, we wish her luck and hope she will keep inspiring us today and always.
