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Esther Crawford

Angel Investor, Former Director of Product Management at Twitter

Esther Crawford is a notable figure in the tech industry, currently serving as the Director of Product Management at Meta, specifically focusing on the Messenger platform. Previously, she held a similar position at Twitter (now X), where she was instrumental in launching key projects like Twitter Blue and Spaces. Crawford's tenure at Twitter lasted over two years, from December 2020 until her layoff in February 2023, following Elon Musk's acquisition of the company.123

Career Background

Crawford's career began with her founding and leading a video chat startup called Squad, which was acquired by Twitter in December 2020. This acquisition led to her transition into Twitter, where she reported directly to the CEO and worked on various revenue-generating products, including Twitter Blue and monetization strategies for creators.26

During her time at Twitter, she became known for her dedication, famously sharing a photo of herself sleeping at the office to highlight the intense work culture under Musk's leadership. This image went viral and became emblematic of the demanding environment at the company. Despite her commitment, she later expressed concerns about employee burnout and the high-pressure atmosphere created by Musk's management style.35

Transition to Meta

In April 2024, Crawford announced her new role at Meta, expressing excitement about joining a company that aligns with her passion for enhancing human connection through technology. She praised Meta's leadership and the potential impact of its products on a global scale.12

In addition to her role at Meta, Crawford is also an angel investor and has been involved with Sequoia Capital, focusing on early-stage startups that promote healing and connection.46

Personal Insights

Crawford has shared her nuanced views on Elon Musk, acknowledging his strengths while also critiquing the lack of psychological safety at Twitter under his leadership. She described Musk as both charming and unpredictable, highlighting the challenges of working closely with him.5 After her departure from Twitter, she reflected positively on her experiences, stating that being laid off was "the best gift" she could have received, allowing her to pursue new opportunities.5

Overall, Esther Crawford's career reflects a strong commitment to product innovation and a deep interest in fostering connections through technology, making her a significant player in the tech landscape.

Highlights

Apr 29 · twitter

Scrolling back 10+ years in Google Photos is a mix of my kids growing up and screenshots of dead apps. 🪦

Feb 14 · twitter

Marry a nerdy wife guy. It absolutely lives up to the hype.

Aug 26 · yahoo.com
The former Twitter director who went viral for sleeping in the office ...
Apr 30 · nypost.com
Esther Crawford, ex-Elon Musk loyalist, hired by Mark Zuckerberg
Ex-Twitter Director Who Went 'Hardcore' for Elon Musk Now at Meta
Former Twitter Director Dishes on Elon Musk in 14-Minute Video
Former Twitter Director Dishes on Elon Musk in 14-Minute Video
Jul 26 · twitter.com
Esther Crawford on X: "Like seemingly everyone on this app I have ...

Related Questions

What projects did Esther Crawford oversee at Twitter?
Why was Esther Crawford laid off from Twitter?
What is Esther Crawford's role at Meta?
How did Esther Crawford's tenure at Twitter impact her career?
What are Esther Crawford's thoughts on Elon Musk's leadership?
Esther Crawford
Esther Crawford, photo 1
Esther Crawford, photo 2
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Experience

Angel Investor at Sequoia Capital since January 2023
Director of Product Management at Twitter, CEO at Squad, Head of Product Marketing at Stride Labs

Education

Master’s Degree in International Relations and National Security Studies from Durham University, Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy from Oregon State University, Founder in YC W18 batch at Y Combinator, Arabic Language Certificate from University of Jordan

Location

San Francisco, California, United States