Scandal rocks tech firm Astronomer: CEO Andy Byron resigns over affair with HR chief -who steps in?

"Cofounder and Chief Product Officer Pete DeJoy is currently serving as interim CEO, given that Andy Byron has been placed on leave," Astronomer said in a statement, as quoted by The Mirror US. "We will share more details as appropriate in the coming days."

DeJoy, who joined Astronomer in 2017 after graduating from Bowdoin College, was instrumental in building the data company’s initial offerings, the New York Post reported.

He was promoted to Senior Vice President in 2023 and became Chief Product Officer in February 2025, according to his LinkedIn profile.

Pete DeJoy, interim CEO of Astronomer. Photo courtesy of DeJoy's X

The appointment, announced on July 19, follows Andy’s placement on leave amid the alleged affair with company HR chief Kristin.

The scandal erupted when the two were caught on camera at a Coldplay concert in Boston on July 16, embracing in a cozy display that quickly went viral.

Andy resigned as CEO by July 19 afternoon.

Neither Andy nor Kristin has commented on the affair allegations.

Page Six reported that DeJoy had "liked" a LinkedIn post from Astronomer ex-staffer Zachary Hensley, who expressed amusement over the scandal.

Hensley also wrote on LinkedIn in response to DeJoy’s appointment as interim CEO: "Pete DeJoy is amazing. I’m so excited for him. Love you Petey."