X Advertising Chief Linda Yaccarino Departs After 10 Months

John Nitti Departs from X Advertising Leadership

John Nitti has stepped down from his role as advertising chief at X after a tenure of only ten months, according to reports from the Financial Times.

Initially brought on board as the global head of revenue operations and advertising innovation, Nitti was viewed by some as a possible replacement for the previous CEO, Linda Yaccarino, who resigned in July.

Recent Executive Departures at X

Nitti’s departure represents the latest in a series of high-profile exits from Elon Musk’s executive team, which has experienced increasing instability.

Previously, X’s CFO, Mahmoud Reza Banki, left the company in October after less than one year of service. Furthermore, both the CFO and general counsel of xAI also departed during the summer months.

Underlying Tensions and Decision-Making

Sources cited by the FT suggest that these departures are linked to growing discontent within the executive ranks.

Executives reportedly expressed frustration with Musk’s sudden changes in strategy and his tendency to make decisions independently, such as the prohibition of hashtags in advertising campaigns without prior consultation with the advertising team.

Pressure from AI Investment and Advertising Policies

The advertising leadership team is facing increased pressure as Musk directs substantial financial resources towards AI development. This investment aims to establish competition with companies like OpenAI and DeepMind.

While some brands have resumed advertising on the platform following a controversial statement made by Musk in late 2023, and xAI has formed partnerships with organizations such as Disney, other companies have voiced concerns.

These concerns include allegations of being compelled to advertise after X initiated legal action against brands like Shell and Pinterest, claiming boycott-related offenses.