Reed Hastings is the co-founder and executive chairman of Netflix, a leading streaming service provider that has revolutionized the entertainment industry. With a background in mathematics and computer science, Hastings has played a significant role in shaping Netflix's innovative culture and driving its growth to over 222 million members worldwide. In addition to his work at Netflix, Hastings is an active educational philanthropist and has served on the California State Board of Education.

Who is Reed Hastings?

Reed Hastings, born in 1960 in Boston, Massachusetts, is an influential figure in the entertainment industry as the co-founder and executive chairman of Netflix. After obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from Bowdoin College and a Master's Degree in Computer Science from Stanford University, Hastings embarked on a career in software development.

As the former CEO of Netflix, Hastings played a crucial role in revolutionizing the way people consume media, leading to the rise of streaming platforms and the decline of traditional media distribution methods.

In addition to his work at Netflix, Hastings is an active educational philanthropist and has served on the California State Board of Education, as well as on the board of several educational organizations such as KIPP and Pahara.

Work History

• Powder: Chairman, April 2023 - Present
• Netflix: Chairman, October 1997 - Present
• KIPP Foundation: Board Member, January 2007 - Present
• Pahara Institute: Board Member, January 2011 - Present
• Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley: Board Member, September 2014 - June 2019
• Facebook: Board Member, June 2011 - June 2019
• Dreambox: Board Member, April 2010 - September 2018
• California Charter Schools Association: Board Member, January 2008 - September 2016
• Microsoft: Board Member, April 2007 - November 2012
• California State Board of Education: President, January 2000 - January 2004

Education History

Reed Hastings has an impressive educational background, having earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from Bowdoin College between 1979 and 1983. Following his undergraduate studies, Hastings pursued a Master's Degree in Computer Science with a focus on Artificial Intelligence at Stanford University, completing the program between 1986 and 1988. This strong foundation in mathematics and computer science has undoubtedly contributed to his success in the technology and entertainment industries.

When did Reed Hastings join Netflix?

Reed Hastings co-founded Netflix in 1997 and has been with the company ever since. As a co-founder, he assumed the role of CEO from the beginning, leading the company for 25 years before transitioning to the position of Executive Chairman in 2023. Throughout his tenure at Netflix, Hastings has played a pivotal role in transforming the entertainment industry and expanding the company's reach to millions of members worldwide.