The technology startup Astronomer announced the official resignation of CEO Andy Byron on Saturday evening, following a scandal involving an affair with the company’s human resources director at a Coldplay concert, CNN reported.
Byron was suspended on Friday, and the company announced a formal investigation into the matter.
The company’s board is currently searching for a new CEO, with co-founder Pete DeJoy appointed interim CEO.
Incident Details
During a Coldplay concert on Wednesday, Byron appeared on the big screen hugging Kristin Cabot, the company’s human resources manager.
When he noticed that they are on the screen, Byron, who is married with children, tried to hide.
Chris Martin, frontman of the British rock band Coldplay, jokingly commented, “Either they’re cheating or they’re very shy.”
A video of the incident went viral online.
Company Statement
Astronomer released a statement saying, “Andy Byron has submitted his resignation, and the board has accepted it. We will begin the search for a new CEO, while Pete DeJoy continues to lead the company in the interim.”
It added “Before this week, we were software leaders, helping data teams power modern analytics and artificial intelligence. As previously stated, Astronomer has adhered to ethical standards that have guided us since our founding. Our leaders are expected to set standards of conduct and accountability. Recently, that standard has not been met.”
In May, Astronomer raised US$93 million in funding led by Bain Ventures and with participation from other investors such as Salesforce Ventures.
The company now faces the challenge of rebuilding its reputation after the scandal.
