TikTok combines its Core Product and Trust & Safety teams to speed safety feature development under U.S. regulatory review.
An internal memo sent to staff by TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew and viewed by TechCrunch and confirmed by TikTok indicates that the company is consolidating its Core Product and Trust & Safety teams into a single organization, as the company’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain.
In the memo, Chew stated, “This new team will enable us to more effectively utilize our technical capabilities to achieve both business and safety objectives, as well as to develop the next generation of safety technology at a faster pace.”
TikTok confirmed to TechCrunch that Adam Presser, the chief of Operations and Trust & Safety at TikTok, will assume the role of general manager of TikTok USDS, a distinct entity within the company that is responsible for protecting U.S. national security interests, as part of the modifications proposed in the memo.
Andy Bonillo, the current general manager of TikTok USDS, who has been instrumental in the organization’s conception and expansion, will assume the senior adviser position, reporting to Presser.
Presser will continue to supervise the TikTok Operations teams, while Grover will assume the Global Trust & Safety director role.
In the interim, Jenny Zi will assume the role of TikTok Live’s leader.
President Trump extended the TikTok termination deadline for the third time last month, prompting the reorganization. September 17 is the current deadline.
Last week, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick declared that TikTok would cease operations in the United States if China fails to sanction a sale agreement for the application.
As part of the transaction, Lutnick also asserted that the U.S. must regulate the app algorithm.
Unsurprisingly, TikTok is attempting to strengthen its USDS team in light of the tense situation, which is occurring amid a tariff conflict with China, as its U.S. deal is in jeopardy.
“The T&S Product team will now be a part of the TikTok Product organization to achieve greater alignment across our robust trust and safety programs,” wrote Chew.
“We are establishing a new Platform Responsibility team, which will be headed by Adam Wang and will report to Fiona Zhi.” Over the past four years, Adam has effectively overseen the global launch and expansion of TikTok LIVE.
“I am confident that this reorganization will put us in an even stronger position to match the opportunities ahead of us,” the memo said.
