The sudden departure of a company's general counsel often sparks suspicion and triggers concern. This perception is amplified when a recently hired GC abruptly leaves.

Last month, Purchase, New York-based Mastercard named its fourth legal chief since 2021, following the departure of Rob Beard, who stepped down from his role after just 14 months. Neither the company nor Beard, who left to become the legal chief of a laser manufacturer, responded to Law.com's inquiries about his early exit.