Business

Linda Yaccarino to Depart NBCUniversal, in Talks for Twitter CEO

NBCUniversal announced on Friday morning that long-time head of advertising Linda Yaccarino was stepping down with immediate effect, fueling speculation that she could become Twitter’s head.

Elon Musk is in talks to hire Yaccarino as Twitter’s chief executive, according to two people familiar with the matter. Negotiations are at an advanced stage, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the conversations are confidential.

Yaccarino has been in talks with Musk for several weeks, he said. Yaccarino interviewed Musk onstage at an advertising event in Miami last month.

“We are grateful to Linda Yaccarino for her leadership of the NBCUniversal ad sales business and the innovative team and platform she has built,” said Mike Kavanagh, who has run NBCUniversal. “Linda has made countless contributions to the company during her tenure of 12 years. We wish her all the best.”

“I am honored to join Comcast NBCUniversal and lead the most incredible team,” Yaccarino said in a statement.

Mr. Mask Said He announced on Thursday that he had elected Twitter’s chief executive, but did not disclose its executives. He tweeted, “She will be starting her job in about 6 weeks!” He added that he will remain involved as executive chairman and “CTO,” which usually means chief technology officer, and will continue to oversee Twitter’s products and software.

Musk, who bought Twitter for $44 billion last year, will maintain a firm hold on the company even if he appoints a CEO. As the owner of Twitter, he fired more than 75 percent of the company’s 7,500 employees, installed its own leader, and changed the function and strategy of the service, thus stamping Twitter’s seal of approval. Also, by making Twitter private, it no longer needs to disclose company information to the public.

NBCUniversal’s surprise announcement comes weeks after the company abruptly fired its chief executive officer, and days ahead of the company’s biggest showcase for advertisers.

Related Articles

Back to top button