Web Summit, the esteemed annual technology conference held in Lisbon, Portugal, has welcomed back its co-founder Paddy Cosgrave as CEO. This leadership change comes after Katherine Maher’s brief tenure as CEO, which followed Cosgrave’s departure amid controversy over his public criticisms related to the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023.
Cosgrave’s return to the helm marks a significant moment of reflection and reconnection for him. “Stepping back last year allowed me the first break in 15 years, offering a chance to ponder over Web Summit’s journey, its origins from my bedroom, and the future I envision for it,” Cosgrave shared. He emphasized his renewed commitment to fostering the tech community’s growth, stating, “Reconnecting with old friends, I’ve been inspired to not only continue our mission but to supercharge it, building even stronger communities within Web Summit.”
Advertisement
A Global Tech Event Powerhouse
Since its inception in 2009, Web Summit has evolved from a modest 150-person conference in Dublin into a series of the world’s largest technology events, attracting over 140,000 attendees annually from across the globe. With a team of over 340 professionals based in Dublin and offices in Portugal, Canada, Qatar, Brazil, among other locations, the event organizer has set its sights on producing world-class technology festivals in Europe, North America, South America, Asia, and the Middle East. Each event is designed to showcase the unique characteristics of its location while maintaining the successful framework developed over the years.
Aiming for Global Impact
The events, including Web Summit in Europe, in Rio in South America, Collision in North America, Qatar in the Middle East, and RISE in Asia, have collectively gathered half a million people. This global platform connects people and ideas that change the world, continuing to push the boundaries of innovation and community building in the tech industry.
With Cosgrave’s return as CEO, the event is poised to embark on a new chapter, reinforcing its position as a leading force in the global technology conference landscape, dedicated to driving innovation and fostering a digital, sustainable, and inclusive future.
