Elon Musk has confirmed the hiring of a veteran ad executive, Linda Yaccarino, as the new CEO of Twitter. Musk further revealed that Yaccarino will primarily focus on business operations while Musk will focus more on product design and new technology. In a welcome tweet, Musk said; “I am excited to welcome Linda Yaccarino as the new CEO of Twitter!”
Learn More About the New CEO of Twitter
Linda Yaccarino has been with NBCUniversal for more than 20 years and has held a variety of leadership positions. Currently, she is responsible for all of NBCUniversal’s global advertising and partnerships businesses. She oversaw all market strategy and advertising revenue, which totaled nearly $10 billion, for NBCUniversal’s entire portfolio of broadcast, cable, and digital assets.
“I think that first and foremost, she’ll bring to Twitter an understanding of what advertisers need to see to get back on the platform from the brand safety perspective,” said Dave Campanelli, chief investment officer of media buying firm Horizon Media. “She knows better than anyone what it’s going to take and I think for advertisers and buyers, the question really is, is she going to have free rein to do all that or is it going to be just the same old, same old (with Musk),” he added.
A Possible Attack on Freedom of Speech
As Musk announced the new CEO many people rushed to express their concern regarding the free speech and Musk’s vision to defend it citing an interview Yaccarino had with the Twitter owner weeks before. They assumed that Yaccarino would push initiatives to limit users’ speech to appease advertisers. Musk was quick to respond to the claims; he said; “I hear your concerns, but don’t judge too early. I am adamant about defending free speech, even if it means losing money.”
Also read: All Inactive Twitter Accounts Will be Deleted Soon: Elon Musk
