Instagram co-founders, Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger have announced they are leaving the photo-sharing app they sold to Facebook in 2012 for $US1 billion.
In a statement, Systrom said he and Krieger are excited to explore their “curiosity and creativity again” and that they are grateful for the last eight years at Instagram and six years with the Facebook team.
While they did not reveal the reason for their departure, there are reports it could be a result of growing tensions between them and Facebook founder, Mark Zuckerberg, regarding the direction of the business.
However, Zuckerberg released a public statement saying he “really enjoyed” working with the men.
“Kevin and Mike are extraordinary product leaders and Instagram reflects their combined creative talents,” Zuckerberg said. “I’ve learnt a lot working with them for the past six years and have really enjoyed it. I wish them all the best and I’m looking forward to seeing what they build next.”.
Systrom and Krieger announced their decision to the leadership team on Monday, and they are expected to depart the company soon.
