Google+ creator Vic Gundotra quits after eight years nurturing network

The executive credited with bringing the Google+ social network to life is leaving the internet colossus after playing a key role there for nearly eight years.

Vic Gundotra announced his departure in a post on his Google+ page, saying he was looking forward to a "journey yet to come" and not revealing his reasons for leaving.

Along with being in charge of the Google social network launched in a challenge to Facebook, Gundotra is known for his work with independent developers whose "apps" are vital to the popularity of smartphones and tablets powered by Android software.

"I have been incredibly fortunate to work with the amazing people of Google," Gundotra said, specifically praising the leadership of co-founder and chief Larry Page.

Gundotra worked for more than a decade at Microsoft before becoming a high-profile executive at Google.

His responsibilities included handling relationships with outside developers and shepherding in mobile products such as turn-by-turn navigation in Google Maps.