Sheryl Sandberg served as Meta's Chief Operating Officer for 14 years and was a board member for 12 years, playing a significant role in the company's growth and strategic direction.
Sandberg announced her departure from Meta's board in January 2024, with her term set to end in May of the same year.
As one of the most influential women in Silicon Valley, Sandberg's exit marks the end of a significant era for Meta, a company that she helped transform from a startup into a global tech giant.
In her announcement, Sandberg mentioned her decision to not stand for re-election in May, highlighting a desire to step away after ensuring a successful transition post her COO role.
During her tenure, Sandberg was instrumental in leading Meta's multibillion-dollar advertising business, contributing to a dramatic increase in the company's revenue.
Sandberg joined Facebook, now Meta, in 2008, bringing mature leadership to a then young tech firm. Her role was crucial in steering the company towards advertising dominance.
Under her watch, Meta, formerly Facebook, rebranded to focus on virtual reality and move past challenges related to privacy, data handling, and societal impact.
Beyond her executive role, Sandberg became a household name through her book "Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead," contributing to public discourse on women in leadership.
Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, expressed gratitude for Sandberg's dedication and guidance, acknowledging her role in driving the company's success.
Although leaving the board, Sandberg will continue her association with Meta as an advisor, providing guidance and expertise in this new capacity.