Virgin Galactic Chairman Chamath Palihapitiya Steps Down From Board

  • SPAC pioneer will focus on his other board commitments
  • Space-tourism firm aims to start commercial service this year

Chamath Palihapitiya

Photographer: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg
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Serial dealmaker Chamath Palihapitiya stepped down as chairman of Virgin Galactic Holdings Inc., an abrupt departure as the space-tourism company moves from startup phase toward paying flights.

Palihapitiya plans to focus on his other board commitments and the resignation did not result from any disagreements with the company, Virgin Galactic said Friday. Current director and Chief Investment Officer Evan Lovell was appointed interim chairman as the company begins a search for a successor.