One of the long-time voices helping to shape Facebook’s public image is leaving to start her own communications consulting practice. Brandee Barker joined Facebook in August of 2006, before the site had 10 million users, and essential features like the News Feed. Over the next few years, she played an important behind-the-scenes role helping to explain the news feed and a hundred other product launches and news stories to the press.

While known among reporters for her “no comment” answers to questions, she also took extra time to build relationships with them and explain the company’s position in straightforward terms.

After reflecting on her career while on maternity leave this year, she decided that she wants to focus more on early-stage companies. She’ll be leaving Facebook officially on December 10.