Sheryl Sandberg Steps Down from Meta Board, Takes Adviser Role

By: WE Staff | Thursday, 18 January 2024

Sheryl Sandberg, Meta's Chief Operating Officer, has announced her resignation from the company's board of directors. Sheryl, who played a key role in Facebook's transformation into Meta, revealed her decision not to compete for re-election in a heartfelt Facebook post in May. After 14 years as COO, she remained on the board until her departure in September 2022.

Sheryl expressed gratitude to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, praising his innovative leadership and their long-term collaboration. She stated that the current Meta leadership team, led by Mark, has demonstrated the company's strength and readiness for the future. Mark reacted by complimenting Sheryl for her significant contributions to the company and the community.

Sheryl, who had focused on philanthropic work since leaving her executive role, committed her time to Lean In, a women's leadership foundation. Notably, she took engaged in discussions on rape and sexual assault as weapons of war, especially in light of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Meta saw extraordinary growth under Sheryl's leadership, with revenues rising from $272 million in 2008 to over $118 billion in 2021. Despite setbacks such as a pandemic-induced advertising slowdown, Meta, assisted by considerable investments in artificial intelligence, regained its speed under new leadership.

Sheryl's effect extends beyond business performance; she has advocated for workplace reform in Silicon Valley, influencing policy changes made by major US tech firms on issues like as bereavement leave, paternity leave, and family planning support.