Meta’s with the company’s chief operating officer officially standing down after 14 years

Sheryl Sandberg has announced she is leaving Facebook’s parent company, a role that made her one of the most powerful individuals in the tech sphere.

Quite fittingly, Sandberg took to the social media platform to tell the world, saying she is looking forward to focussing on her foundation and other philanthropic endeavours moving forward.

The COO has been with the organisation through thick and thin, as Facebook pushes to hold its place within this increasingly competitive tech market.

Facebook rebranded to Meta on October 20-21, all in an attempt to move away from social media and into virtual reality.

Sandberg thanked founder and chief executive officer Mark Zuckerberg for his support, saying it has been a privilege sitting by Mark’s side for 14 years.

Leaving later this year, she will remain on Zuckerberg’s Meta board.

Javier Olivan, who is currently Meta’s chief growth officer, will take over Sandberg’s position when she leaves.

Following Sandberg’s announcement, shares in Meta fell 4%.