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Brian Chesky

Brian Chesky is an American businessman, industrial designer, and the co-founder and chief executive officer of Airbnb.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Brian Chesky is an American businessman, industrial designer, and the co-founder and chief executive officer of Airbnb. He helped launch the company in 2007 and has led its growth into a global short-term rental and travel platform. Chesky was born in Niskayuna, New York, and graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design.

Early life and education

Brian Chesky was born in 1981 in Niskayuna, New York. He studied industrial design at the Rhode Island School of Design, which influenced his approach to product and company design.

Founding of Airbnb

Chesky co-founded Airbnb in 2007 after an idea to host guests in a San Francisco apartment. The service began with air mattresses and grew into a major online marketplace for short-term accommodations.

Leadership at Airbnb

As CEO, Chesky oversees Airbnb’s overall vision and strategy. Airbnb credits his design-driven approach with helping build trust and community on the platform.

Philanthropy

Chesky is a signatory to the Giving Pledge. Airbnb states that he has committed to donating the net proceeds of his CEO equity compensation to community, philanthropic, and charitable causes.

Key facts

  • Co-founded Airbnb in 2007 with Joe Gebbia and later Nathan Blecharczyk.
  • Serves as Airbnb’s chief executive officer and shapes the company’s vision and strategy.
  • Studied industrial design at the Rhode Island School of Design.
  • Grew up in Niskayuna, New York, and later lived in San Francisco.
  • Airbnb has expanded to hosts and guests in more than 220 countries and regions.
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Canadian context

Airbnb is widely used by Canadian travellers and hosts, so Chesky is relevant to Canada through the company he co-founded and leads.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Brian Chesky?
Brian Chesky is the co-founder and CEO of Airbnb and an American businessman and industrial designer.
When was Brian Chesky born?
He was born on August 29, 1981.
What did Brian Chesky study?
He studied industrial design at the Rhode Island School of Design.
What is Brian Chesky known for?
He is best known for co-founding Airbnb and leading it as CEO.
Where is Brian Chesky from?
He is originally from Niskayuna, New York, in the United States.
Is Brian Chesky involved in philanthropy?
Yes. He is a Giving Pledge signatory and has said he will donate the net proceeds of his CEO equity compensation to charitable causes.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Chesky
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, occupation, and role as Airbnb co-founder and CEO.
  2. Airbnb Newsroom — https://news.airbnb.com/about-us/leadership/brian-chesky/
    Supports: Current CEO role, education, origins, company growth, and philanthropy statement.
  3. Bloomberg — https://www.bloomberg.com/billionaires/profiles/brian-j-chesky/
    Supports: Biographical details and connection of wealth to Airbnb ownership stake.