Dan Neary, the Vice President for Asia Pacific at Meta Platforms, has announced his departure from the company after a remarkable 12-year tenure. His announcement comes as part of a broader leadership transition within the organization, coinciding with Meta’s strategic shift towards artificial intelligence.
Neary joined Meta (formerly Facebook) in 2013, during a time when the company was still solidifying its presence in the Asia Pacific region. Over the years, he played a pivotal role in driving the expansion of Meta’s platforms—including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp—across key markets such as Australia, Greater China, and Southeast Asia. Under his leadership, Meta’s user base in the region grew significantly, contributing to nearly 50% of the company’s global advertising reach today.
In a statement shared with employees, Neary expressed gratitude for his time at Meta, stating, “After an incredible 12-year run at Meta, it’s time for me to say thank you and goodbye. Working at such a remarkable company has been an absolute privilege.” He also mentioned that he would remain with the company for a few more months to assist in the transition and help find his successor.
During his tenure, Neary was instrumental in shaping Meta’s commercial strategy in Asia Pacific. His extensive experience in scaling global businesses was vital in navigating the complexities of emerging markets. Prior to joining Meta, Neary held senior roles at Skype and eBay, where he honed his skills in market development and strategic planning.
A spokesperson for Meta highlighted Neary’s contributions: “Dan’s impact on Meta has been extraordinary. He has built and led our APAC business to incredible heights, delivering consistently strong results over the years.” His leadership fostered a culture of empowerment and growth within the organization.
As Neary prepares to step down, no official successor has been named yet. However, he is expected to play an active role in ensuring a smooth transition for his replacement. The timing of his departure aligns with Meta’s increased focus on artificial intelligence technologies, as CEO Mark Zuckerberg has indicated substantial investments in AI infrastructure across its platforms.
Neary’s exit marks another shift in leadership at a time when Asia Pacific remains central to Meta’s long-term growth strategy. The region has become increasingly important as digital adoption continues to rise among consumers.
Following Neary’s departure, industry experts are closely watching how Meta will navigate this leadership change while maintaining its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. The company’s commitment to innovation and user engagement will be crucial as it seeks to enhance its offerings and expand its market presence.
Neary plans to take some time off after transitioning out of his role before exploring new opportunities. His departure signifies not just a personal change but also reflects broader trends within the tech industry as companies adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
Dan Neary’s departure from Meta after 12 years highlights his significant contributions to the company’s growth in the Asia Pacific region. As he steps down from his role as VP, his legacy will be remembered for establishing Meta as a dominant player in diverse international markets while paving the way for future innovations.
Key Highlights:
- Dan Neary steps down as Vice President for Asia Pacific at Meta after 12 years.
- He played a key role in expanding Meta’s presence across major markets.
- Neary will assist in finding his successor before leaving.
- His exit coincides with Meta’s strategic shift towards artificial intelligence investments.