Meta COO Sheryl Sandberg Stepping Down – Opinion

Meta Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, who’s known as Mark Zuckerberg’s right-hand woman, is stepping down from her role after 14 years this fall.

Sandberg was a Facebook employee in its early days. She will remain on Facebook’s board of directors, even though she has resigned. Politico reported that Javier Olivan is the vice president for central products. However, she will not be taking over exactly her title.

Sandberg posted the following Facebook message:

“When I took this job in 2008, I hoped I would be in this role for five years. Now, fourteen years later it’s time to begin the next chapter. I am not entirely sure what the future will bring – I have learned no one ever is. However, I do know that it will be a focus on my foundation and philanthropic efforts. It is crucial for me to make this a more meaningful time in women’s history. As Tom and I are married, we will be raising our five additional children. Mark and myself will transfer my direct reports over the coming months and I will retire from the company in 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.”

Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg replied with his gratitude for Sandberg’s contributions to the company:.

“The end of an era. In the 14 years we’ve worked together, you’ve architected our ads business, hired great people, forged our management culture, and taught me how to run a company,” he said. “I’m going to miss working alongside you every day, but grateful to have you as a lifelong friend. Thank you for all you’ve done for me and my family, for our company, and for millions of people around the world. You’re a superstar.”

CBS News reports that under Sandberg’s watch since 2008, Facebook went from 100 million users to 3 billion and grew from 500 to roughly 80,000 employees.

The businesswoman’s departure comes amid reports that she was losing her grip at the company for months, according to Business Insider. The New York Times last October reported that Zuckerberg’s working relationship was at risk after the firm came under intense scrutiny from the political world. The publication also cited former President Donald Trump.

While she may not have had as significant an impact in recent years, it’s clear that she effectively changed how the world interacts with the internet. Facebook and their massive other social media platform Instagram play a huge role in the way billions interact professionally, personally, as well as politically.

There will be many controversy surrounding Meta. Both the legacies and legacy of Sandberg and Zuckerberg are sure to continue. But they have undoubtedly made a significant impact on the future of technology.