Amazon Launches Succession Mechanism, Appoints New 'Shadow Advisor' Mehta

[Para 1: The Lead] Amazon (AMZN-US) announces CEO Andy Jassy appoints Dharmesh Mehta, current Vice President of Global Seller Partner Services, as Technical Advisor starting March 1, 2026. This role, often referred to as the 'Shadow Advisor,' is highly competitive and a key stepping stone for senior management positions. [Para 2-3: Supporting details & Context] Amazon also promotes Amit Agarwal, Senior Vice President of International Emerging Markets Stores, to oversee Seller Partner Services and Customer Trust teams. Mehta, with over 12 years at Amazon, has been instrumental in developing tools and platforms for independent sellers, enhancing business expansion and platform transaction security. Under his tenure, Amazon has reduced counterfeiting and fraud, and expanded logistics, supply chain management, and generative AI tools. The company generates approximately $42.5 billion in third-party e-commerce revenue per quarter, with independent sellers accounting for over 60% of sales. The Technical Advisor role, typically held by an executive 'shadow,' involves accompanying the CEO to nearly all meetings, assisting in strategic decision-making, removing organizational barriers, and providing technical and operational support. The term is usually 18 to 24 months, with experience often serving as a pipeline for high-level leadership training.