Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has announced that Joel Kaplan will be taking over as the new head of policy. Kaplan, a former senior adviser to George W. Bush, will be replacing Nick Clegg, the former deputy prime minister of Britain, who had been in the role since 2018.
Kaplan brings a wealth of experience in politics and policy to his new position at Meta. He served in the Bush administration as deputy chief of staff for policy under the Bush administration and later worked at Facebook as vice president of global public policy. Kaplan’s background in government and tech will be instrumental in navigating the complex regulatory landscape that Meta currently faces.
Clegg, who has been praised for his handling of policy issues at Meta, will be staying on at the company as a strategic adviser. His tenure as head of policy saw Meta navigating numerous controversies, including concerns over misinformation, privacy violations, and antitrust scrutiny. Under his leadership, the company made strides in addressing these issues and engaging with policymakers and regulators.
In a statement, Kaplan expressed his excitement for the new role and the opportunity to continue working on policy issues that are crucial for the company’s future. He highlighted the importance of collaborating with governments, experts, and stakeholders to address challenges and shape the future of the internet.
Overall, Kaplan’s appointment marks a new chapter for Meta as the company continues to grapple with regulatory challenges and public scrutiny. With his background in government and tech, Kaplan is well-positioned to lead Meta’s policy efforts and guide the company through the complex regulatory landscape.