Patrick Dugan

Patrick Dugan is the Chief Executive Officer of Couchsurfing International, having assumed the role in late 2015. He played a significant part in the company's transition from a nonprofit to a for-profit model, which included acquiring controlling interest through his firm, Valencia Street Capital. Dugan has a background in finance and technology, having previously worked for companies such as NetSuite, Palantir Technologies, and Practice Fusion.12

Under Dugan's leadership, Couchsurfing has faced various challenges, including a shift to a subscription-based business model during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This change was met with mixed reactions from the Couchsurfing community, which had previously enjoyed free access to the platform.2 Dugan's strategic decisions have been pivotal in navigating the company through its financial difficulties and operational changes since his appointment.123