In a stunning turn of events, Andy Byron, chief executive of the US tech company Astronomer, has resigned after a video showing him embracing a female colleague during a Coldplay concert went viral. The footage, capturing the pair on a large screen at the show held in Foxborough, Massachusetts, led to significant speculation and scrutiny.
In a statement following Byron’s resignation, the company's board said, “Andy Byron has tendered his resignation, and the Board of Directors has accepted.” The video, which quickly amassed millions of views, depicted Byron and Kristin Cabot, the firm’s chief people officer, swaying to the music and attempting to duck out of view from the camera. Their awkward attempt to hide was met with a humorous comment from Coldplay’s lead singer, Chris Martin, who quipped to the audience, “Either they're having an affair, or they're just very shy.”
The company stressed its commitment to maintaining high standards of conduct and accountability within its leadership team, stating, “Recently, that standard was not met.” Following the incident, Astronomer announced the commencement of an internal investigation regarding the relationship, and Byron was placed on leave as a precaution while the matter was examined.
As the situation unfolds, the New York-based firm is actively searching for a new CEO while the chief product officer will serve as the interim leader.
