The Webby Awards announced the appointment of entrepreneur and leading digital executive Jesse Feister as its new Executive Director. Feister will lead the next generation of The Webby Awards as it expands its focus to include the rapidly growing and evolving world of digital creators and AI. Under his leadership, the awards will continue to recognize groundbreaking online achievements while adapting to the dynamic landscape of digital innovation.
Feister is a seasoned technology entrepreneur and senior executive with extensive experience working at the intersection of digital platforms and creative economies. Most recently, he served as Global Head of Creator Marketing at Twitch, where he oversaw music growth during the pandemic before being tapped to lead creator go-to-market initiatives including the company’s focus on creator collaboration and the first-of-its-kind Twitch DJ Program.
In addition to his work at Twitch, Feister has led teams to two successful exits at the intersection of music and technology. He co-founded Songspace, a music workflow platform acquired by FUGA (now a part of Virgin Music Group) in 2019. As VP of Marketing at Kobalt Music Group, he oversaw the U.S. launch of AWAL, a record label and services company acquired by Sony Music Group in 2021.
A former Island Records recording artist, Feister is an established thought leader at the intersection of the arts and technology, frequently speaking at universities and publishing research in publications such as Harvard Business Review. His deep understanding of the landscape and his commitment to advancing the professional growth of creators and technologists will guide a new era of The Webby Awards in an era of Creators and AI.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jesse to the Webby team. His unparalleled experience along with his vision for the future of digital innovation makes him the perfect candidate to steer the next generation of The Webby Awards,” said David-Michel Davies, CEO of The Webby Awards. “With Jesse as our new Executive Director, we look forward to amplifying the voices that are shaping the internet of today and tomorrow.”
“I’ve long admired The Webby Awards for its role in celebrating the best of the Internet, and I’m excited to help lead its evolution at such a pivotal moment for technology and culture,” said Feister. “We are entering a new era of entrepreneurship and influence for creative people across all walks of life. I look forward to shaping this future of the awards alongside the rest of the incredible Webby team.”
About The Webby Awards
Hailed as the “Internet’s highest honor” by The New York Times, The Webby Awards is the leading international awards organization honoring excellence on the Internet, including Websites and Mobile Sites; Video; Advertising; Media & PR; Apps & Software; Social; Podcasts; AI, Immersive & Games and Creators. Established in 1996, The Webby Awards received nearly 13,000 entries from all 50 states and over 70 countries worldwide this year. The Webby Awards are presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS). Sponsors and Partners of The Webby Awards include WP Engine, LinkedIn, Meltwater, NAACP, KPMG, Wall Street Journal, Vox Media, Deadline, AdAge, TechCrunch, The Hollywood Reporter, The Hustle, Morning Brew, Passionfruit, Embedded, Link in Bio, Creator Economy NYC, Creator Spotlight, AIGA, Vote Save America, and The Publish Press.
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