Reid Hoffman
TL;DR Reid Hoffman is a visionary entrepreneur, investor, and author whose influence spans the technology, business, and social innovation sectors, shaping how people connect, work, and think about the future of AI and human collaboration.
Reid Hoffman by Sora
Reid Hoffman is an American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, author, and thought leader widely regarded as one of Silicon Valley’s most influential figures. Best known as the co-founder of LinkedIn, Hoffman has spent his career building and investing in platforms that foster human and professional connections. His blend of philosophical insight and practical business acumen has made him a key voice in discussions about technology, ethics, and the rise of artificial intelligence.
Born in Palo Alto, California, in 1967, Hoffman studied Symbolic Systems at Stanford University and later earned a Master’s degree in Philosophy from Oxford University. Early in his career, he joined Apple and later Fujitsu before becoming part of the founding team at PayPal, where he served as an executive vice president. After PayPal’s acquisition by eBay, he launched LinkedIn in 2002, creating a professional networking ecosystem that transformed global career development and recruitment.
Beyond entrepreneurship, Hoffman became a partner at Greylock Partners, where he has backed some of Silicon Valley's most successful startups, including Airbnb, Convoy, and Aurora. He’s also a prolific author and podcaster, known for works such as The Start-Up of You and Masters of Scale, where he explores the mindset and methods behind building enduring companies.
In recent years, Hoffman has taken a leading role in AI research and ethics, supporting initiatives such as OpenAI and contributing to the debate over how society can harness artificial intelligence for the collective good.
Co-founder of LinkedIn, one of the world’s largest professional networking platforms
Early executive at PayPal, part of the influential “PayPal Mafia” of tech innovators
Partner at Greylock Partners, investing in major companies including Airbnb and Convoy
Author of bestselling books including The Start-Up of You, The Alliance, and Blitzscaling
Host of the acclaimed Masters of Scale podcast
Board member and advisor to Microsoft and OpenAI
Advocate for ethical AI and social impact through technology
