Greg Peters, the co-CEO of Netflix, stands as a testament to strategic vision and leadership in the rapidly evolving entertainment industry. Appointed to the role in January 2023, Peters has been an integral part of Netflix’s journey since he joined the company in 2008. His career trajectory reflects both a deep understanding of technology and an astute approach to business development, which have contributed significantly to the streaming giant’s continued dominance.
From Engineer to Executive: The Early Years
Peters’s ascent within Netflix is marked by his remarkable versatility. Initially serving as the company’s Chief Streaming and Partnerships Officer, he was responsible for spearheading Netflix’s international expansion and forging key global partnerships. Over the years, his role evolved, and in 2017, he became the Chief Product Officer, a position in which he was responsible for the company’s innovation in product development. His leadership in this area saw the introduction of several important initiatives, such as smart downloads, mobile gaming, and the introduction of ads to the platform. His decision-making during this period was lauded by Reed Hastings, Netflix’s co-founder, who praised Peters for consistently making “great decisions” in shaping the company’s future.
In 2020, he added another title to his resume, becoming Netflix’s Chief Operating Officer. In this capacity, Peters took on broader responsibilities that included overseeing operational efficiency, a critical function as the company scaled globally and faced increasing competition in the streaming market. Under his leadership, Netflix introduced impactful measures such as tighter controls on password sharing—an initiative that reflected Peters’s readiness to adapt to shifting market demands.
Leading the Global Expansion
Peters’s leadership journey culminated in his appointment as co-CEO, alongside Ted Sarandos, in 2023, following Reed Hastings’ transition to executive chairman. In this new role, Peters’s expertise in operations and product strategy continues to influence Netflix’s strategic direction. Together with Sarandos, he is at the helm of a company navigating a landscape that demands constant innovation and agility, particularly as competition intensifies from both traditional media and emerging digital platforms.
Greg Peters’s background, however, extends beyond his tenure at Netflix. Before joining the streaming giant, he built a solid foundation in the tech and entertainment sectors. Peters earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Astronomy from Yale University, a discipline that sharpened his analytical skills and ability to approach complex problems with a methodical mindset. His early career included positions at Macrovision Solutions Corp (later renamed Rovi Corporation), Mediabolic Inc., and Red Hat, Inc., where he gained extensive experience in the development of digital entertainment software and consumer electronics.
A Visionary Leader in the Entertainment Industry
His decision to join Netflix in 2008 was a turning point in his career. At the time, Netflix was transitioning from a DVD rental service to an emerging digital streaming powerhouse. Peters’s role as the company’s International Development Officer saw him play a crucial role in Netflix’s international expansion, securing pivotal partnerships with consumer electronics companies and Internet service providers. These collaborations were essential in bringing Netflix’s streaming service to global audiences.
Peters’s contributions to Netflix are not limited to product development and operational leadership. Under his guidance, Netflix has solidified its reputation as a global leader in original content production, from the creation of Japanese originals to its continued push into interactive media. As co-CEO, Peters’s role is central to overseeing Netflix’s growth strategy in a competitive market where technology, content, and consumer demand are constantly in flux.
In his personal life, Peters hails from a family with deep roots in journalism and the arts. He is the grandson of William Peters, a journalist and civil rights activist, and the nephew of Gretchen Peters, a renowned singer and songwriter. His upbringing in such an intellectually rich environment has no doubt shaped his approach to business—one grounded in both creative thinking and a commitment to social impact.
As Netflix continues to innovate under his leadership, Greg Peters stands as one of the defining business figures of his generation. His journey reflects not only the rapid transformation of the entertainment industry but also the critical role that visionary leaders play in shaping the future of global enterprises. With his extensive experience, strategic acumen, and commitment to excellence, Peters is well-positioned to guide Netflix into its next chapter of growth and success.
