Facebook lobbyist Tim Sparapani departs

Facebook confirmed Monday that director of global public policy Tim Sparapani left the firm on Friday.

Sparapani became Facebook's second Washington employee in 2009 after the former ACLU privacy hawk was tapped to lead the social networking giant's lobbying efforts. Until recently he managed the firm's outreach to Congress and state attorney generals on policy issues.

"Tim Sparapani decided to transition out of the company last month. He has made a lasting impact by helping build our DC team and policy portfolio," said Facebook spokesman Andrew Noyes. "We are sad to see him go, but we appreciate Tim's desire to pursue new opportunities and we wish him well."

Facebook recently added former Obama White House aide Louisa Terrell as director of public policy. Facebook vice president for U.S. public policy Joel Kaplan and public policy manager Myriah Jordan, both from the George W. Bush White House, will help manage Facebook's Congressional relations going forward.

The firm recently told The Hill it would start its own political action committee to back candidates that share the firm's values, such as innovation. The upcoming debate over consumer privacy legislation could significantly impact the business of social networks and other sites that collect consumers' personal information.

Sparapani notified Facebook of his intent to leave last month. No reason was given for his departure, which was first reported by Politico.

This post was updated at 6:57 p.m.