Shailesh Rao exits Twitter

SINGAPORE –Twitter’s VP for APAC, Latin America and emerging markets, Shailesh Rao, has stepped down from his role after more than four years with the company.

It is understood that the search for Rao’s replacement is still ongoing, with Twitter expected to make an announcement soon.

In a statement issued after queries from Campaign Asia-Pacific, a Twitter spokesperson stated:

We thank Shailesh [Rao] for his contributions and leadership over the past four years. He built up our international business across Asia Pacific, Latin America and emerging markets into our fastest-growing user and revenue region today. He has hired and developed strong local teams across these markets, as well as opened dozens of offices worldwide, to serve our users, partners and advertisers. We wish him all the best and we will continue to hire and invest in the high-growth Asia Pacific region.

In a tweet announcing his departure from the company, Rao said it was “time for new challenges” and expressed pride in what the team has accomplished to date.

After 4+ yrs growing the Intl business at @twitter, it’s time for new challenges. Around through July, then off to plot the next chapter!

— Shailesh Rao (@shaileshrao) July 4, 2016

Couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve built across Asia, Latin America and Emerging Mkts - leaving the business in great hands!

— Shailesh Rao (@shaileshrao) July 4, 2016

Rao joined the social media platform company after more than 10 years with Google, where he held roles such as VP of media, mobile & platforms - Asia Pacific and managing director of Google India.

Campaign Asia-Pacific has reached out to Rao for further comment.