Amazon’s long-serving CEO of consumer business has stepped down, Amazon stated.

Dave Clark has been with the firm for 23 years, advancing from managing a warehouse in Kentucky to directing the whole retail operation.

He was also in charge of Amazon’s warehousing and shipping operations, as well as overseeing the retail company during a period of the boom during the Covid-19 epidemic.

Clark was appointed CEO of global consumer in August 2020, following the retirement of Jeff Wilke.

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy stated in a note to employees that Clark will “pursue other possibilities” outside of the business. Amazon is “trying to be careful in our planning for Dave’s succession and whatever changes we make,” he added, with an announcement likely “in the coming weeks.”

Clark tweeted his email to employees, “For some time, I have shared my intention to transition out of Amazon with my family and those close to me, but I wanted to ensure the teams were set up for success.”

Despite the pandemic’s success, Amazon is presently encountering hitherto unanticipated hurdles. Amazon’s blatant anti-union activities and “grueling” labor conditions have been publicly documented and opposed by prominent figures such as John Oliver.