BIO:
- Name: Sheryl Sandberg
- Title/Position: Former Chief Operating Officer of Facebook (Meta)
- Industry: : Technology, Social Media
- Location: Menlo Park, California, USA
- Age: 55 - (28th of August 1969)
- Net Worth: Approximately $1.6 billion as of March 2025
Sheryl Sandberg’s Story
Sheryl Sandberg is the former Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Facebook (now Meta Platforms). Sandberg was the first woman to serve on Facebook’s board of directors and wants to help other women embrace their ambitions, having written the cultural sensation Lean In and founding the non-profit organization, Lean In.
Born in Washington, D.C., Sheryl Sandberg displayed academic excellence from an early age. She graduated summa cum laude from Harvard University with a degree in economics in 1991. During her time at Harvard, she served as a research assistant to Professor Lawrence Summers, who later became the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury.
Sandberg’s early career included a stint at McKinsey & Company as a management consultant, followed by her role as Chief of Staff to Lawrence Summers during his tenure as Treasury Secretary under President Bill Clinton. In 2001, she joined Google as Vice President of Global Online Sales and Operations, where she played a pivotal role in developing the company’s online advertising programs.
In 2008, Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder and CEO of Facebook, appointed Sandberg as the company’s COO. Her leadership was instrumental in transforming Facebook into a profitable enterprise through innovative advertising strategies and operational excellence.
Sandberg’s tenure at Facebook and bold advocacy for women have made her an iconic female leader. She is also the author of one of the best business books for women, which she wrote in response to her viral TED Talk on why we have too few female leaders.
Career Highlights
Key Milestones:
- 2001: Joined Google as Vice President of Global Online Sales and Operations. citeturn0search1
- 2008: Appointed COO of Facebook, becoming the company’s second-highest-ranking official. citeturn0search1
- 2012: Became the first woman to serve on Facebook’s board of directors.
Achievements:
- Author: Published the best-selling book which has become a cultural phenomenon “Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead” in 2013, encouraging women to pursue their ambitions and “lean in.”
- Philanthropy: Founded LeanIn.Org, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women to achieve their goals.
- Recognition: Featured in Time 100, Time Magazine’s annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world, in 2012.
Sheryl Sandberg’s Net Worth
As of March 2025, Sheryl Sandberg’s net worth is estimated at approximately $1.6 billion. Her wealth primarily stems from her tenure at Facebook, where she received significant compensation, including salary, bonuses, and stock options. The appreciation of Facebook’s stock over the years substantially increased the value of her holdings. Additionally, Sandberg has earned income through book sales and speaking engagements.
Sheryl Sandberg in the News
- August 2022: Announced her departure as COO of Meta Platforms, ending a 14-year tenure with the company.
- January 2024: Stepped down from Meta’s board of directors to focus on philanthropic endeavors and personal projects.
Sheryl Sandberg Quotes
“What would you do if you weren’t afraid?”
“Done is better than perfect.”
“In the future, there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders.”
“Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.”
“Careers are a jungle gym, not a ladder.”
“There is no perfect fit when you’re looking for the next big thing to do. You have to take opportunities and make an opportunity fit for you, rather than the other way around. The ability to learn is the most important quality a leader can have.”
FAQs: Most Asked Questions About Sheryl Sandberg
When did Sheryl Sandberg join Facebook?
Sheryl Sandberg joined Facebook in March 2008 as the Chief Operating Officer.
Why is Sheryl Sandberg so famous?
Sandberg is renowned for her role in transforming Facebook into a profitable company and for her advocacy for women’s empowerment through her book “Lean In” and the founding of LeanIn.Org.
How did Sheryl Sandberg make her money?
Her wealth primarily comes from her tenure at Facebook, where she received substantial compensation, including salary, bonuses, and stock options. The appreciation of Facebook’s stock significantly increased her net worth. citeturn0search2
Why did Sheryl Sandberg quit Facebook?
In June 2022, Sandberg announced she would step down as COO to focus on her philanthropic work and personal projects.
Why is Sheryl Sandberg so famous?
She is a famous female leader and was the second-highest-ranking official at Facebook, playing a key role in the company’s growth and profitability. Furthermore, she is also a huge advocate for women who founded the non-profit Lean In and wrote the best-selling book, “Lean In.”
What is Sheryl Sandberg doing now?
She is focusing on philanthropy, advising Meta, and investing in startups.
Why is Sheryl Sandberg a good leader?
Sheryl is considered a good leader because of her ability to inspire, mentor, and empower others. She’s known for setting high expectations, recognizing talent, and pushing for growth, both personally and professionally. She is a pioneer in the feminist movement and unapologetic about her own ambitions and advancement.
