After more than a decade with YouTube, Robert Kyncl is departing the company.
Kyncl was one of YouTube’s earliest hires, joining the company in 2006 when it was still a small startup. He played a key role in YouTube’s growth, helping to launch and grow the site’s Partner Program, which allows creators to make money from their videos.
Kyncl also helped YouTube expand into new areas, such as live streaming and virtual reality. Most recently, he served as YouTube’s Chief Business Officer, overseeing the company’s relationships with advertisers, creators, and other partners.
Kyncl’s departure comes as YouTube is facing increased scrutiny from advertisers, creators, and regulators. The company has been embroiled in a number of controversies over the past year, including the spread of fake news and conspiracy theories, hate speech, and offensive content aimed at children.
YouTube has taken steps to address these issues, but they have not been enough to placate advertisers or creators. Kyncl’s departure may be an indication that YouTube is struggling to find a balance between its business goals and the needs of its users.
Whatever the reason for his departure, Kyncl leaves behind a legacy of success at YouTube. The company has grown from a small startup into a global media powerhouse under his leadership. Kyncl has been instrumental in shaping YouTube into the video platform it is today.
Despite the challenges, Kyncl remains bullish on YouTube’s future. In a statement, he said he’s proud of the company’s “unwavering commitment to creativity and expression.”
Kyncl’s replacement has not been announced.