Linda Yaccarino Resigns as X CEO Amid Wave of Top Executive Departures from Musk-Led Firms
Linda Yaccarino officially resigned as CEO of X on Wednesday, July 9. Her statement was brief: “After two incredible years, I’ve decided to step down as CEO of X.” Elon Musk, the owner of the platform, responded simply, “Thank you for your contributions.”
No reason was given for Yaccarino’s exit. However, her departure adds to a long list of recent resignations at Musk’s companies. In the past year, at least 14 senior leaders have left Tesla, SpaceX, and X.
Yaccarino joined X in 2023 after a long career in media and advertising. She started with an internship at NBC and later spent 20 years at Turner Broadcasting. She returned to NBC in 2011, eventually becoming chairperson of global advertising and partnerships. She led thousands of employees and helped generate over $100 billion in ad sales.
Her shift to X was seen as a bold move into the tech world. But her time at the company was marked by constant scrutiny and big challenges. Her exit now joins a growing pattern.
Other recent resignations from Musk’s firms include Tesla sales chief Omead Afshar, Optimus robot head Milan Kovac, and SpaceX VP Tom Ochinero. Leaders from both Tesla and X, including HR directors, engineers, and media heads, have also stepped down in 2024 and 2025.
While Yaccarino did not explain her decision, the timing raises questions. Musk’s leadership style and high-pressure work environments have come under increasing attention. Though there is no direct link confirmed between Musk and these exits, the pattern points to internal strain.
Yaccarino’s departure puts fresh focus on the leadership dynamics inside Musk’s companies, especially as they navigate major transitions in AI, space, and social media.
