Xiaomi Global VP Hugo Barra quits; to continue as advisor

Xiaomi Global Vice-President Hugo Barra announced his exit from the Chinese handset maker to return to the Silicon Valley.

New Delhi: Xiaomi Global Vice-President Hugo Barra on Monday announced his exit from the Chinese handset maker to return to the Silicon Valley.

The former Google executive, who has been working with Xiaomi for nearly four years, will continue as an advisor with the Chinese firm.

In a Facebook post, Barra said nearly four years ago he embarked on the "most challenging adventure".

"But what I've realised is that the last few years of living in such a singular environment have taken a huge toll on my life and started affecting my health. My friends, what I consider to be my home, and my life are back in Silicon Valley, which is also much closer to my family. Seeing how much I've left behind these past few years, it is clear to me that the time has come to return," he added.

Talking about Xiaomi's international business, Barra said, "We turned India from a dream into Xiaomi's largest international market with USD 1 billion in annual revenues, faster than any company in India's history."

The company also expanded into Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, and more recently 20 other markets, including Russia, Mexico, and Poland, he added.

"As a friend and shareholder of the company, I am honored that he (CEO Lei Jun) has been very supportive of my transition and has asked me to remain an advisor to Xiaomi indefinitely, as we continue to extend our reach around the world," Barra said.