Facebook sales chief quits: 'Spending more time with the family'
"Thanks for one helluva ride! " That was how Facebook sales executive Tom Arrix announced today he was leaving the company after seven years.
Arrix: 'Best is yet to come."
In a note posted on Facebook he allowed himself a modest boast. " From 8m users in 2006 to 1.2 billion today and counting!"
Arrix said he planned to spend a lot of time with my family in Connecticut over the rest of the summer. But he gave no clue as to exactly why he was leaving.
"This was an incredibly difficult decision to make," his note said. "I feel strongly that the work I set out to take on here at FB is complete, we built the foundation for the future of our Ads business. And because of that, it's an ideal time for me to move on. I'm really excited to take some time but so energised to explore what's next to build."
He paid tribute to his colleagues, " You are all world class and I could not be more proud of what we’ve accomplished together here at Facebook.
"We crafted a vision that allowed marketers to better connect their brands with people, we started from scratch and built a multi-billion dollar business, we adopted and excelled at mobile advertising faster than anyone could imagine and we have the most passionate and amazing teammates around the world. "
He added, ". In my heart, I know the best is yet to come, and I can't wait to see what Facebook accomplishes in the years ahead.
He thanked Mark Zuckerberg and Mike Murphy "for bringing me into Facebook and giving me the opportunity of a lifetime." To Sheryl Sandberg, David Fischer and Carolyn Everson he said: I can’t thank you enough for your unwavering leadership and support. You’ve been wonderful mentors, leaders and more importantly, great friends."
Then came his "Thanks for one helluva ride!" remark. " I can't wait to see what Facebook accomplishes in the years ahead," he added.
Arrix joined Facebook in 2006 and was the company's VP-global marketing solutions for the U.S., leading the domestic sales team based in New York
Facebook's VP-global marketing solutions Carolyn Everson will fill Arrix's role until a replacement is hired, according to a spokesperson.
The company said of Arrix's departure: "Tom was an early and integral member of Facebook's global sales efforts. He leaves a great legacy at Facebook and we wish nothing but the best for him in the future."