Anthropic, an up-and-coming AI startup which has been touted as the next big thing in the AI revolution after OpenAI, has announced the appointment of the co-founder and former CEO of Netflix, Reed Hastings, to its board of directors. Having served as the CEO of Netflix from 1997 up until 2023, Hastings has a proven record of leading tech companies. The appointment to the board of directors was made by Anthropic’s Long Term Benefit Trust, which is an independent body comprising five financially disinterested members.
Reed Hastings is no stranger to holding meaningful leadership positions in tech companies, as throughout his career, Hastings has held prominent board positions within the tech sector. Previously, Hastings served on the boards of some of the biggest companies in the world, including Microsoft, Bloomberg, and Meta(Previously Facebook). Anthropic noted that their motive is to use AI for the betterment of mankind, and the “extensive Experience” Hastings brings to the company will help them do just that. The AI startup also stated that Hastings brings an “Understanding of how to ensure technology serves broader societal goals.”
Reed Hastings also shared his views on the appointment, saying, “Anthropic is very optimistic about the AI benefits for humanity, but is also very aware of the economic, social, and safety challenges. I’m joining Anthropic’s board because I believe in their approach to AI development and in helping humanity progress.”
Its worth noting that prior to his appointment on the board of directors of Anthropic, Hastings has been doing his bit for the betterment of AI. He recently pledged $50 million to his alma matter, Bowdoin College in Maine, to develop an AI research initiative whose sole purpose will be to develop ethical guidelines for AI and study its effects on education, workplace and personal relations.
