Farhan Thawar is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Shopify, a leading global commerce company. Thawar joined Shopify as the Vice President & Head of Engineering in 2019, where he has played a pivotal role in overseeing the technical strategy and innovation that underpin Shopify's vast platform. His background includes a blend of technical leadership and advisory roles at various tech firms, which has equipped him with unique insights into driving technology transformations in fast-paced environments.
Who is the CTO of Shopify?
Farhan Thawar has established himself as a leader in the technology sector, noted for his strategic acumen and hands-on approach to engineering and product development. His extensive experience includes roles such as CTO and co-founder of Helpful.com (acquired by Shopify), where he led the development of collaborative communication tools, and VP of Engineering at Xtreme Labs, which was acquired by Pivotal Software. Thawar's career reflects a strong commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in engineering practices.
Work History
- Shopify: VP & Head of Engineering since January 2019
- Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS): Board Member since January 2023
- ResponseTek: Board Member since January 2018
- Advisory roles at OpenPhone, brightwheel, Ada, and Phantom Auto, showcasing his expertise in guiding tech startups
- Connected: Board Member from January 2021 to January 2022
- Previous significant roles at Pivotal Software, Xtreme Labs, and Microsoft, among others
Education History
Farhan Thawar's academic credentials include a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Toronto - Rotman School of Management, specializing in Risk Management and Financial Engineering. He also holds a Bachelor of Mathematics in Computer Science with Electrical Engineering from the University of Waterloo. His educational background has provided a strong foundation for his leadership roles in technology and business.
When did Farhan Thawar join Shopify?
Farhan Thawar joined Shopify in January 2019 as the Vice President & Head of Engineering. Since joining, he has been instrumental in leading Shopify's engineering teams, focusing on scaling the platform's capabilities to support the expansive growth of global commerce activities. His leadership continues to impact Shopify's strategic direction and technological advancements.