Reed Hastings is the co-founder and Chairman of Netflix, the world's leading streaming entertainment service. He served as CEO for 25 years from 1997 to 2023, transforming Netflix from a DVD-by-mail service into a global streaming giant. Hastings is also known for his significant philanthropic efforts, having donated over $1.6 billion in Netflix stock to charitable causes.
Co-founded Netflix in 1997 and served as CEO for 25 years before transitioning to Executive Chairman in 2023, then to non-executive Chairman in 2025.
Company Growth
Led Netflix's transformation from a DVD-by-mail service to the world's leading streaming platform with over 260 million global subscribers and $30+ billion annual revenue.
Strategic Vision
Pioneered the shift to streaming media and original content production, establishing Netflix as a dominant force in entertainment and technology innovation.
Powder.org
CEO
2020 - Present
Philanthropic Leadership
Leading educational philanthropy initiatives focused on improving public education and supporting innovative teaching methods through strategic charitable investments.
Charter School Advocacy
Actively promoting charter school development and educational reform policies to enhance educational opportunities for underserved communities across the United States.
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Pure Software
CEO & Founder
1991 - 1997
Software Development
Founded and led Pure Software, a debugging and testing tools company that provided software development solutions for enterprise clients before its acquisition.
Business Exit
Successfully sold Pure Software to Rational Software in 1997, gaining valuable entrepreneurial experience that would later inform Netflix's strategic direction.
Education
Stanford University
Master of Science
1986 - 1988
Artificial Intelligence Focus
Earned MS in Computer Science with specialization in Artificial Intelligence, developing technical expertise that would later influence Netflix's recommendation algorithms and data-driven approach.
Engineering Foundation
Built strong technical foundation in computer science and AI that enabled deep understanding of technology's role in business transformation and innovation.
Bowdoin College
Bachelor of Arts
1979 - 1983
Mathematics Major
Graduated with BA in Mathematics, developing analytical and problem-solving skills that would prove essential in building data-driven business strategies.
Liberal Arts Foundation
Gained broad liberal arts education that fostered critical thinking and communication skills crucial for leadership and strategic decision-making in technology industry.
Key Achievements
Netflix Co-founder
Co-founded Netflix in 1997, transforming entertainment from physical media to streaming
Philanthropist
Donated $1.6 billion in 2024, focusing on education and social impact initiatives
AI Board Member
Appointed to Anthropic's board of directors in 2025, advancing AI development
Education Advocate
Strong supporter of charter schools and educational reform policies
Professional Expertise
Reed Hastings brings decades of experience in technology leadership, media transformation, and philanthropic initiatives across multiple industries.
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