March 13, 2025

Ron Finklestien

Arbitrator Halts Release of Ex-Meta Employee’s Memoir

Arbitrator Restricts Former Meta Employee’s Memoir Promotion and Statements

(RTTNews) – An arbitrator has temporarily prohibited Sarah Wynn-Williams, a former employee at Meta, from promoting or distributing her memoir. Furthermore, she is barred from making any further critical statements about the company until private arbitration concludes.

Details Surrounding the Memoir and Allegations

This ruling comes after the release of her book, Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism. In this memoir, Wynn-Williams makes serious allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct involving senior executives at Meta during her employment.

Meta’s Legal Arguments and the Arbitrator’s Decision

Meta contended that Wynn-Williams’ memoir violates a nondisparagement agreement she signed while working in the global affairs department. After an emergency hearing, arbitrator Nicholas Gowen determined that Meta provided sufficient evidence of a potential breach of contract. Consequently, Wynn-Williams must stop promoting her book, cease its distribution, and retract disparaging statements when possible.

Company’s Response to Allegations

In response to the allegations, Meta has categorically denied the claims. The company characterized the memoir as a blend of outdated incidents and unfounded accusations directed at its leadership. They assert that Wynn-Williams was terminated due to poor performance, and an internal investigation found her allegations misleading.

Implications of the Legal Action

This legal move by Meta marks one of the company’s most decisive public responses to a former employee’s exposé. It also signals a significant shift in Meta’s approach—from its previous open, idealistic culture to a more protective stance regarding public disclosures and internal scrutiny.

The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.


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