TikTok merges its Core Product and Trust & Safety teams

In response to the uncertain future of TikTok in the United States, the company is undergoing a significant restructuring by consolidating its Core Product and Trust & Safety divisions into a unified entity. This strategic decision was communicated to employees in an internal memo from TikTok CEO Shou Chew, which has been confirmed by the company and reported by TechCrunch. Chew emphasized that the merger aims to enhance the effectiveness of TikTok’s technical capabilities, enabling the company to address both business and safety priorities more efficiently. He expressed optimism that this organizational change would accelerate the development of advanced safety technologies. As part of this restructuring, Adam Presser, who previously headed Operations and Trust & Safety, will take on the role of General Manager of TikTok USDS, a specialized segment focused on protecting U.S. national security interests. Andy Bonillo, who has been at the helm of TikTok USDS since its inception, will transition to a Senior Advisor position, working under Presser. The Operations teams at TikTok will continue to report directly to Presser, while Sandeep Grover has been appointed as the new head of Global Trust & Safety. Additionally, Jenny Zi will assume leadership of TikTok LIVE, marking another pivotal shift in the organization. This restructuring comes amid ongoing negotiations regarding TikTok's operations in the U.S. Following a third extension of the shutdown deadline by President Trump, currently set for September 17, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick indicated that TikTok could be banned unless a sale deal is approved by China. Lutnick also noted that control over the app’s algorithm is a crucial aspect of any potential sale. In light of these developments, TikTok appears to be bolstering its U.S. operations, particularly its USDS team, as the negotiations become increasingly critical. Chew highlighted that the integration of the Trust & Safety Product team into the TikTok Product organization is aimed at fostering better alignment across its diverse safety initiatives. Furthermore, a new Platform Responsibility team is being established, led by Adam Wang, who has successfully driven the global expansion of TikTok LIVE over the past four years. Chew concluded the memo with confidence, stating that this reorganization positions TikTok favorably to seize future opportunities.