The CEO and founder of TikTok owner ByteDance has announced that he will step down from his post and move on to a new role by the end of the year.
In a letter to staff, Zhang Yiming said he would be followed by one of his founders, Rubo Liang.
The move marks the biggest shaking of the Chinese technology giant since its launch nearly a decade ago.
The popularity of TikTok has helped it become a global phenomenon but has also been under scrutiny by the lawmakers .
What Did Zhang Say?
“The truth is, I lack some of the skills that make an ideal manager. I’m more interested in analysing organizational and market principles, and leveraging these theories to further reduce management work, rather than actually managing people,” Mr Zhang wrote in a message on the company’s website.
“Similarly, I’m not very social, preferring solitary activities like being online, reading, listening to music, and contemplating what may be possible,” he added.
Who Will Be His Successor?
Mr Zhang said his successor, Rubo Liang, had become “a very important partner”, improving the company’s technology as well as hiring and managing staff.
Mr. Liang’s recent role in ByteDance was head of its human resources department.
The letter also said a change in leadership would take place in the next six months to ensure a smooth transition.
About Byte-Dance And TikTok
Launched in 2012, Beijing-based company Byte Dance has created the smash-hit app TikTok, which has an estimated 700 million active users per month.
Its widespread popularity means it has been tested by governments around the world, including the United States and China.
During his presidency, Donald Trump regularly attacked ByteDance, accusing TikTok of being a threat to the security of the United States.
Politicians and officials have raised concerns about the personal data of users transmitted to the Chinese government.
TikTok has denied allegations it shares information with domestic state.
Last month ByteDance was one of 13 online platforms urged by Chinese regulators to follow strict regulations in their financial stabdards, as part of a broader effort to strengthen technology companies.
