Twitter Inc (NYSE:TWTR)’s head of communications, Gabriel Stricker, announced his exit on Thursday. His exit suggests the micro-blogging company is planning big changes in its strategies under the guidance of its new acting CEO, Jack Dorsey.
Gabriel held important posts
Stricker, who has been Twitter’s top communications person since 2012, informed investors about his exit with a tweet without stating the reason for his departure.
“Thank you @Twitter for an extraordinary ride. It continues to be much more than a company,” Stricker tweeted.
Being a former Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) PR staffer, Stricker has gained top communications and policy jobs at many Silicon Valley firms. At Google, Stricker is known for enhancing the profile of Marissa Mayer, current CEO of Yahoo! Inc. (NASDAQ:YHOO). He also guided Twitter through its high-profile IPO by building great public relations. At one time, he was in charge of Twitter’s marketing and media partnerships, but later CFO Anthony Noto was assigned the marketing duties.
Does Twitter blame Stricker for growth issues?
Recently Twitter released a statement which clearly suggests that Stricker is responsible for some of the growth issues it is facing.
“It continues to be essential that we show the world the value of Twitter. Communications is a key component, looking now to shift our communications strategy and direction,” Twitter said. Thanking Gabriel for his contributions, the micro-blogging firm said it will soon bring in new “leadership.”
Wall Street has been targeting Twitter for its slow user growth. Dick Costolo resigned from the post of CEO earlier this month and was replaced by Jack Dorsey as interim CEO. Although the board of directors is in search of a newCEO, a report from Business Insider, citing a source familiar with the matter, said revenue boss Adam Bain could be given the responsibility.
With the news of the CEO change surfacing, the media began to speculate that the micro-blogging firm is planning to change its strategies and product plans. But Dorsey has been denying all such rumors. Now Stricker’s exit and Twitter’s recent comment on the exit tells a different story. It seems there are greater changes lined up than have been detailed by Dorsey.
On Thursday, Twitter shares closed up 1.23% at $36.10, and year to date, the stock is up by almost 1%, while in the last 12 months, shares are down by almost 6%.
[“source – valuewalk.com”]