Meta has appointed three new members to its board, including UFC President Dana White, a close ally of Donald Trump. This move comes as Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, works to rebuild ties with Trump.
In addition to Dana White, John Elkann, the head of European investment firm Exor, and Charlie Songhurst, former Microsoft executive, also join the board. Zuckerberg expressed that the new members would bring valuable expertise in artificial intelligence, wearables, and future human connection technologies.
Dana White’s appointment highlights his role in transforming UFC into a global business. While White is known for his support of free speech, his past controversies—such as his handling of anti-LGBT remarks by UFC fighters—have drawn attention. Nevertheless, Meta is optimistic about his contribution to shaping the company’s future.
The changes at Meta also include Sir Nick Clegg’s departure from his position as President of Global Affairs, replaced by Republican Joel Kaplan, who has managed Meta’s relationship with the GOP.
Meta’s recent efforts to strengthen ties with Trump also follow his temporary ban from Facebook and Instagram after the January 2021 US Capitol riots. However, in recent months, Trump has softened his stance, praising Zuckerberg’s actions ahead of the 2024 elections. Zuckerberg’s $1 million donation to Trump’s inauguration fund further indicates the thawing of relations.
This strategic board reshuffle at Meta is positioning the company for significant developments in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, with a keen eye on the evolving political landscape.
