Scott Meyer, the CEO of About.com, part of New York Times Company (NYSE: NYT), is leaving by next week, our sources say, and has been confirmed by the company. His last day will be Thursday next week. No replacement is being named now.

SEE ALSO: Interview: Scott Meyer, President & CEO, About, Inc.—Part I

I spoke briefly to Meyer today, and he says it is a completely amicable parting. He had been at NYT for about eight years now, He was appointed the CEO of About.com in the summer of 2005 and said About.com is in a great place to grow now. His next move: some time off and then to be decided.

Staci adds: Based on Meyer’s memo to staff, looks like Martin Nisenholtz, NYTCo SVP-digital operations, is taking charge directly, at least for now. Excerpts:

“After almost 3 years at About and almost 8 years with The New York Times Company, I am moving on.  After discussions with Martin, we’ve agreed that I’ll be stepping down from my position as President & CEO of the About Group and leaving the Times Company.  My last day in the office will be on Thursday, March 6th.  I am incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together as a team at About.  The About Group is in a very strong position. I will miss not being a part of About’s future, but I’m confident that the Group’s best days are ahead.

“Going forward, Martin & Ron (McCoy) will be managing the Group.  Ron, Darline and Sheryl will all report directly to Martin for now.  Marjorie, Peter, Mike and Matt Roberts will be reporting directly to Ron.”

Disclosure: About.com is the venue sponsor of our upcoming EconHealth conference.