(Rachel Whetstone.Google)

The former Uber executive who led the company through a months-long public relations crisis is joining Facebook.

Rachel Whetstone, Uber's former head of communications and policy, left the ride-hailing giant in April amidst a firestorm of negative publicity, including high-profile allegations of sexual harassment within the company that ultimately led to the resignation of CEO Travis Kalanick.

Now she'll be Facebook's VP of communications for WhatsApp, Instagram, and Messenger. She starts in September and will report to the social network's global VP of comms, Caryn Marooney.

Whetstone joined Uber in 2015 after overseeing communications at Google, and she brings a wealth of expertise to help Facebook navigate the tricky policy questions surrounding its plans to monetize its messaging apps around the world.

Recode first reported the news of Whetstone's move, and Facebook sent Business Insider the following statements on Tuesday:

“It's a real privilege to be joining the Facebook family," Whetstone said. "Products like WhatsApp have become an important part of my life — making it so much easier to stay in touch with my own family and friends.”

And from her new boss, Marooney:

“We are thrilled Rachel will be joining us -- she brings unique insight and leadership to an already world-class team. We’re excited to work with and learn from Rachel as we manage some of the world's most interesting communications opportunities."

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