Sytse 'Sid' Sijbrandij

Net Worth

$1.071B

+0.34% (24h)

Sytse 'Sid' Sijbrandij is the co-founder and Executive Chair of GitLab Inc., a leading DevSecOps platform. With a current net worth of $1.1 Billion, Sijbrandij's wealth stems from his success in the software industry. His career began with unconventional ventures, including building recreational submarines, before he discovered his passion for open-source software. Sijbrandij's leadership transformed GitLab into a comprehensive platform, revolutionizing software development for over 30 million users. He is recognized as an expert in the future of work and entrepreneurship. Sijbrandij holds a Master of Science in Management Science from the University of Twente.

The Full Dossier

Early Life

Born and raised in the Netherlands, Sytse 'Sid' Sijbrandij's early career took an unconventional path. Before entering the tech world, he spent four years building recreational submarines for U-Boat Worx. This experience, while unusual, laid the groundwork for his future success in the software industry.

Rise to Success

Sijbrandij's interest in open-source software led him to discover GitLab in 2012. Recognizing its potential, he commercialized the platform and, by 2015, led the company through Y Combinator's Winter batch. Under his leadership, GitLab experienced rapid growth, attracting over 30 million registered users. He transitioned from CEO to Executive Chair in 2024.

Key Business Strategies

Sijbrandij built GitLab as a fully remote business, which allowed the company to grow without the constraints of physical office spaces. His strategies emphasized transparency, collaboration, and a strong focus on measuring output rather than input.

Philanthropy

As President and Director of the Sijbrandij Foundation, Sid has launched initiatives to improve and reimagine how we approach issues such as cancer treatment, clean energy, city development, incentive design, and how we engage with both art and technology.

Career Timeline

2012-2024

CEO

Co-founder and CEO of GitLab Inc.

2009-2012

Lead Architect

Worked as a Lead Architect for Ministerie van Justitie en Veiligheid's Legis project.

2003

Operational Director

Worked as an Operational Director for U-Boat Worx.

Philanthropic Impact

EducationUndisclosed

GitLab Foundation

Works to improve people's lifetime earnings through access to opportunities.

VariousUndisclosed

Sijbrandij Foundation

Launched initiatives to improve and reimagine how we approach issues such as cancer treatment, clean energy, city development, incentive design, and how we engage with both art and technology.