30 Other Ways to Say “Someone Left the Company” (With Examples)

When communicating about someone who has left a company, it’s essential to express the news thoughtfully and with empathy. Using the right words can make a significant difference in how the message is received, showing respect and consideration for the individual’s journey and the team’s feelings. 

This article offers 30 alternatives to saying “Someone left the company,” each with its own tone and context to help you find the best way to express this news. Whether you’re addressing colleagues, clients, or the broader team, the following phrases can be used to communicate the transition with care and warmth.

Is it Professional/Polite to Say “Someone Left the Company”?

It is professional to mention that someone has “left the company,” but it’s important to ensure your tone is respectful and thoughtful, particularly if the departure was unexpected or if the individual had a significant impact. Depending on the situation, you might want to choose a more compassionate phrase that considers the emotional aspects of the transition, whether it’s a positive or neutral parting.

Pros and Cons of Saying “Someone Left the Company”

Pros:

• Simple and direct, easy to understand.
• No ambiguity in meaning.
• Works for formal or neutral contexts.

Cons:

• Can sound cold or impersonal.
• Lacks emotional warmth.
• May feel abrupt in certain situations.

Synonyms For Someone Left the Company

1. They’ve Moved On to New Opportunities
2. They’ve Transitioned to a New Role
3. They’ve Decided to Pursue Other Interests
4. They’ve Started a New Chapter
5. They’ve Decided to Step Away from Their Role
6. They’ve Retired from the Company
7. They’ve Chosen a New Path
8. They’ve Moved On to a New Venture
9. They’ve Left to Pursue a Different Opportunity
10. They’re No Longer with the Company
11. They’ve Decided to Take a Break
12. They’re Pursuing a New Career Path
13. They’ve Moved on to Fresh Challenges
14. They’ve Embarked on a New Journey
15. They’ve Transitioned to a Different Industry
16. They’ve Gone in a Different Direction
17. They’ve Chosen to Explore New Horizons
18. They’ve Taken a Step Back
19. They’re Taking Time for Personal Growth
20. They’ve Found a New Role Elsewhere
21. They’re Following a New Passion
22. They’ve Moved on to a New Challenge
23. They’ve Transitioned to an Exciting New Opportunity
24. They’ve Decided to Move in a New Direction
25. They’ve Chosen a New Professional Path
26. They’ve Left to Pursue Something New
27. They’re Exploring New Possibilities
28. They’ve Set Out on a New Adventure
29. They’ve Left to Seek New Experiences
30. They’ve Begun a New Professional Journey

1. “They’ve Moved On to New Opportunities”

Scenario: When someone is pursuing a new role or opportunity elsewhere.

Examples:

• “Jane’s moved on to new opportunities after several successful years with us.”
• “We wish Tom all the best as he moves on to new opportunities.”
• “She’s exploring new opportunities that align with her long-term goals.”

Tone: Positive, encouraging, optimistic.

Explanation: This phrase conveys a sense of forward motion and growth. It’s a great way to frame someone’s departure as a positive transition, which reflects well on their career journey.

2. “They’ve Transitioned to a New Role”

Scenario: When someone has shifted to a new position, either within the same organization or elsewhere.

Examples:

• “After an amazing run here, Sam has transitioned to a new role within the industry.”
• “Emma’s transitioned to a new role with a company closer to home.”
• “John has transitioned to a new role in another department.”

Tone: Professional, respectful.

Explanation: This phrase is a neutral, professional way to refer to someone’s departure, particularly if they’ve left to pursue a different position. It can also suggest that they are continuing their career growth.

3. “They’ve Decided to Pursue Other Interests”

Scenario: When someone is leaving to focus on personal projects, hobbies, or a change in direction.

Examples:

• “Samantha’s decided to pursue other interests outside of work.”
• “After much consideration, Greg has decided to pursue other interests.”
• “She’s focusing on other passions and interests at this time.”

Tone: Thoughtful, respectful, understanding.

Explanation: This phrase suggests that the individual’s departure is for personal growth or a lifestyle change. It’s a softer and more personal approach, showing that you respect their decision.

4. “They’ve Started a New Chapter”

Scenario: When someone leaves to embark on a new and exciting journey, professionally or personally.

Examples:

• “Kyle’s started a new chapter in his career at a different company.”
• “Julie’s begun a new chapter in her life and has taken a break from the industry.”
• “He’s started a new chapter with a focus on entrepreneurship.”

Tone: Positive, hopeful, inspiring.

Explanation: This expression suggests that the individual is embarking on something significant and exciting. It carries an optimistic tone, focusing on new beginnings.

5. “They’ve Decided to Step Away from Their Role”

Scenario: When someone is voluntarily leaving the organization.

Examples:

• “Sarah’s decided to step away from her role and focus on personal goals.”
• “David’s decided to step away from his role to pursue new challenges.”
• “After much reflection, Mark has decided to step away from his role here.”

Tone: Respectful, neutral.

Explanation: This phrase indicates a decision that’s been thoughtfully made by the individual. It avoids suggesting any negativity and instead frames the departure as a deliberate choice.

6. “They’ve Retired from the Company”

Scenario: When someone has retired from the workforce, particularly after a long career.

Examples:

• “After a distinguished career, Nancy has retired from the company.”
• “We celebrate Bill’s retirement from the company after 30 years of dedication.”
• “John has retired, and we’re grateful for his many years of service.”

Tone: Celebratory, respectful.

Explanation: This phrase is perfect for those who have reached the milestone of retirement. It’s a respectful acknowledgment of their career and contributions.

7. “They’ve Chosen a New Path”

Scenario: When someone is leaving for a career change or to explore something entirely different.

Examples:

• “Ella’s chosen a new path and is now focusing on her own business.”
• “Tom has chosen a new path that aligns with his personal values.”
• “She’s chosen a new path outside of the corporate world.”

Tone: Inspirational, supportive.

Explanation: This expression conveys a sense of autonomy and self-direction. It highlights that the individual is following their passion and pursuing something meaningful.

8. “They’ve Moved On to a New Venture”

Scenario: When someone is starting their own business or launching a new professional project.

Examples:

• “Alex has moved on to a new venture and is focusing on entrepreneurship.”
• “After much hard work here, Kelly’s moved on to a new venture in the tech industry.”
• “He’s started a new venture that he’s passionate about.”

Tone: Excited, forward-looking.

Explanation: This phrase emphasizes the excitement and initiative behind the departure, especially when the individual is stepping into the world of entrepreneurship or a new business endeavor.

9. “They’ve Left to Pursue a Different Opportunity”

Scenario: When someone has accepted a job elsewhere or moved to a different role.

Examples:

• “Liam’s left to pursue a different opportunity that offers him more growth.”
• “After thoughtful consideration, Mark has left to pursue a different opportunity.”
• “She’s left to pursue a different opportunity with a company in her field of interest.”

Tone: Neutral, respectful.

Explanation: This phrase communicates a smooth transition and respects the individual’s decision to seek new professional challenges.

10. “They’re No Longer with the Company”

Scenario: When someone is no longer employed by the company, regardless of the reason.

Examples:

• “Unfortunately, Mike is no longer with the company as of this week.”
• “As of last month, Sarah is no longer with the company.”
• “Peter is no longer with the company and has moved on to new ventures.”

Tone: Direct, neutral.

Explanation: This is a straightforward, no-frills approach to announcing someone’s departure. It works in more formal contexts but lacks warmth, so use it with care.

11. “They’ve Decided to Take a Break”

Scenario: When someone is stepping away from work temporarily for personal reasons.

Examples:

• “After years of hard work, Anna has decided to take a break to focus on personal growth.”
• “John has decided to take a break and spend more time with his family.”
• “She’s stepping away for a while to recharge and focus on new possibilities.”

Tone: Supportive, understanding, neutral.

Explanation: This phrase is gentle and considerate, especially when the departure is related to personal reasons such as mental health, family, or self-reflection.

12. “They’re Pursuing a New Career Path”

Scenario: When someone is switching industries or careers.

Examples:

• “Mark is pursuing a new career path that aligns with his creative passions.”
• “After years in finance, Rachel is pursuing a new career path in education.”
• “He’s decided to pivot into a different industry that excites him.”

Tone: Encouraging, forward-thinking.

Explanation: This phrase signals growth and exploration, positioning the change as a positive and intentional decision.

13. “They’ve Moved on to Fresh Challenges”

Scenario: When someone is taking on new professional or personal challenges.

Examples:

• “After a fantastic journey here, Lucy has moved on to fresh challenges.”
• “David’s taking on fresh challenges in an exciting new environment.”
• “She’s embracing fresh challenges that will help her grow professionally.”

Tone: Energetic, optimistic.

Explanation: This phrase expresses enthusiasm for new challenges, showing that the person is continuing their development.

14. “They’ve Embarked on a New Journey”

Scenario: When someone has left to explore something new in life or career.

Examples:

• “After years of dedication, Tom has embarked on a new journey.”
• “Emma is embarking on a new journey, and we wish her all the best.”
• “She’s stepping into a new journey filled with opportunities.”

Tone: Inspirational, positive.

Explanation: This phrase suggests adventure and change, making it ideal for new beginnings.

15. “They’ve Transitioned to a Different Industry”

Scenario: When someone has left to pursue work in a different field.

Examples:

• “Kevin has transitioned to a different industry that better suits his skills.”
• “Lisa is making a career transition into the healthcare sector.”
• “She’s transitioned into a different industry that aligns with her long-term goals.”

Tone: Professional, neutral.

Explanation: This is a practical way to announce a career shift, making it ideal for professional settings.

16. “They’ve Gone in a Different Direction”

Scenario: When someone has chosen a path that diverges from their previous role.

Examples:

• “After much thought, Chris has gone in a different direction career-wise.”
• “She’s gone in a different direction to explore new interests.”
• “He’s chosen a different direction that better suits his future goals.”

Tone: Neutral, respectful.

Explanation: This phrase provides a broad and neutral way to explain a departure without revealing too much detail.

17. “They’ve Chosen to Explore New Horizons”

Scenario: When someone is expanding their professional or personal experiences.

Examples:

• “After years in this role, Jack has chosen to explore new horizons.”
• “She’s exploring new horizons in a different field.”
• “We wish him the best as he explores new horizons in his career.”

Tone: Optimistic, open-ended.

Explanation: This phrase evokes a sense of adventure and growth, making it a great positive alternative.

18. “They’ve Taken a Step Back”

Scenario: When someone is intentionally slowing down or stepping away from work.

Examples:

• “Megan has taken a step back to focus on personal priorities.”
• “He’s taking a step back for a while to recharge.”
• “She’s decided to take a step back and reassess her career goals.”

Tone: Supportive, understanding.

Explanation: This phrase suggests deliberate decision-making while respecting the individual’s need for space.

19. “They’re Taking Time for Personal Growth”

Scenario: When someone is stepping away to focus on self-improvement or personal goals.

Examples:

• “Ryan is taking time for personal growth before his next move.”
• “After years of dedication, she’s taking time for personal growth.”
• “He’s chosen to take time off to reflect and grow personally.”

Tone: Positive, self-reflective.

Explanation: This phrase frames the departure as a positive choice focused on self-improvement.

20. “They’ve Found a New Role Elsewhere”

Scenario: When someone has taken a new job at another company.

Examples:

• “After an amazing tenure here, Sarah has found a new role elsewhere.”
• “James has secured a new role at a different organization.”
• “She’s moving into a new role that aligns with her career goals.”

Tone: Professional, neutral.

Explanation: A clear and straightforward way to announce a departure without unnecessary details.

21. “They’re Following a New Passion”

Scenario: When someone is leaving to pursue a personal passion, whether it’s a business, creative endeavor, or another interest.

Examples:

• “Jessica is following a new passion in the nonprofit world.”
• “After years in corporate roles, Mike is following a new passion in music.”
• “He’s decided to follow a new passion and start his own business.”

Tone: Encouraging, inspiring.

Explanation: This phrase celebrates personal growth and ambition, making it ideal for positive transitions.

22. “They’ve Moved on to a New Challenge”

Scenario: When someone is taking on a new job or career challenge.

Examples:

• “Chris has moved on to a new challenge that will help him grow professionally.”
• “We’re excited for Lisa as she moves on to a new challenge in the industry.”
• “After years with us, he’s moved on to a new challenge that aligns with his ambitions.”

Tone: Motivational, professional.

Explanation: This phrase highlights ambition and growth, making it perfect for career advancements.

23. “They’ve Transitioned to an Exciting New Opportunity”

Scenario: When someone leaves for a new job or career advancement.

Examples:

• “Sophia has transitioned to an exciting new opportunity in marketing.”
• “After a successful tenure, Brian has transitioned to an exciting new opportunity elsewhere.”
• “She’s embraced an exciting new opportunity that aligns with her goals.”

Tone: Enthusiastic, supportive.

Explanation: This phrase expresses optimism and acknowledges their growth while keeping the transition positive.

24. “They’ve Decided to Move in a New Direction”

Scenario: When someone is making a shift in career, priorities, or life.

Examples:

• “Daniel has decided to move in a new direction and focus on personal growth.”
• “She’s moving in a new direction that better aligns with her aspirations.”
• “After years in this field, he’s decided to move in a new direction professionally.”

Tone: Neutral, respectful.

Explanation: This phrase keeps things general and open-ended, making it versatile for various situations.

25. “They’ve Chosen a New Professional Path”

Scenario: When someone is changing careers or industries.

Examples:

• “Ethan has chosen a new professional path in the education sector.”
• “After much thought, Ava has chosen a new professional path in consulting.”
• “He’s shifting to a new professional path that better suits his interests.”

Tone: Formal, respectful.

Explanation: A clear yet neutral way to explain someone’s decision to change career paths.

26. “They’ve Left to Pursue Something New”

Scenario: When someone is moving on but their next step isn’t clear or publicly shared.

Examples:

• “Rachel has left to pursue something new, and we wish her all the best.”
• “After an amazing journey here, he’s left to pursue something new.”
• “She’s embarking on a new adventure and pursuing something new.”

Tone: Open-ended, respectful.

Explanation: This phrase keeps things vague while maintaining a positive and supportive tone.

27. “They’re Exploring New Possibilities”

Scenario: When someone is taking time off, freelancing, or exploring career options.

Examples:

• “Olivia is exploring new possibilities after leaving her role.”
• “After much thought, James is exploring new possibilities in his career.”
• “He’s taking time to explore new possibilities before deciding on his next step.”

Tone: Optimistic, broad.

Explanation: This phrase suggests an open and evolving journey, making it great for those in transition.

28. “They’ve Set Out on a New Adventure”

Scenario: When someone is starting something exciting or life-changing.

Examples:

• “Alex has set out on a new adventure and we can’t wait to see where it takes him.”
• “She’s set out on a new adventure in a completely different industry.”
• “He’s taking on a new adventure that will challenge and inspire him.”

Tone: Exciting, inspiring.

Explanation: This phrase conveys enthusiasm and encouragement, perfect for new beginnings.

29. “They’ve Left to Seek New Experiences”

Scenario: When someone is leaving for growth, travel, or a career shift.

Examples:

• “After five years here, Emma has left to seek new experiences abroad.”
• “Jake has left to seek new experiences in a different industry.”
• “She’s stepping away to seek new experiences that align with her goals.”

Tone: Encouraging, adventurous.

Explanation: This phrase is versatile and works well for both personal and professional departures.

30. “They’ve Begun a New Professional Journey”

Scenario: When someone is starting something exciting in their career.

Examples:

• “We’re thrilled for Marcus as he begins a new professional journey.”
• “Samantha has begun a new professional journey, and we wish her all the best.”
• “He’s embarking on a new professional journey that aligns with his aspirations.”

Tone: Positive, forward-looking.

Explanation: A strong closing phrase that conveys growth, ambition, and new beginnings.

Conclusion

Choosing the right words to announce a colleague’s departure can set the tone for future relationships and maintain a culture of respect. By using any of these 30 alternatives, you can ensure your message is thoughtful, professional, and empathetic, making the transition feel positive and forward-looking.