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    Brandon Kessler

    CEO / Founder, Devpost

    Brandon Kessler is the CEO and Founder of Devpost, a platform that powers the majority of public and private hackathons globally.12 He founded the company in 2009, initially called ChallengePost, with the mission to inspire the world's developers to build great software.12

    Kessler's entrepreneurial journey began during his college years at Columbia University, where he started an indie record label called Messenger Records in 1996.1 He ran this label for 12 years before transitioning to the tech industry.1

    Education and Early Career

    • Graduated from Columbia University with a BA (1992-1996)1
    • Obtained an MBA from Columbia Business School (2006-2007)1
    • Worked various jobs and internships in media-related companies during college1

    Professional Experience

    • CEO/Founder of Devpost (June 2009 - Present)1
    • CEO/Founder of Messenger Records (January 1996 - January 2008)1

    Devpost

    Under Kessler's leadership, Devpost has become a leading platform for software engineers to participate in hackathons and find job opportunities.2 The company's focus has evolved over time, now emphasizing helping developers find fulfilling work through hackathons and full-time job placements.3

    Kessler's approach to running Devpost involves hiring the best people, providing clear direction through the company's mission and product vision, and offering employees freedom and support.3 He sees his role as primarily communicative, engaging with employees, customers, board members, and investors.3

    As of 2025, Devpost continues to be a significant player in the tech industry, powering numerous hackathons and adapting to trends such as the increasing focus on AI in software development.4

    Highlights

    May 21 · Business Insider
    When Pinterest needs new AI tools, employees can have a part in creating them
    Jul 9 · youtube.com
    Brandon Kessler (Founder & CEO, DevPost) | CRAFTED. - YouTube
    May 19 · TechCrunch
    Why companies are turning to internal hackathons - TechCrunch
    May 27 · en.wikipedia.org
    Devpost

    Related Questions

    What inspired you to transition from the music industry to tech?
    How did your experience running an indie record label prepare you for founding Devpost?
    What are some of the most memorable hackathons you've seen on Devpost?
    How has Devpost evolved since its inception in 2009?
    What are your future plans for expanding Devpost's job platform?
    Brandon Kessler
    Brandon Kessler, photo 1
    Brandon Kessler, photo 2
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    Location

    New York, New York, United States
    Location