Sergio Ezama thrives in environments where transformation is essential, making his role as Chief Talent Officer at Netflix a natural fit. Tasked with leading the company’s people strategy, he stepped into the position in 2021 at a crucial moment—just as the streaming giant faced a sharp subscriber decline and needed to evolve once again. Rather than leaning into traditional corporate policies, he embraced Netflix’s distinct approach to talent management, prioritizing adaptability and trust over rigid structures. His leadership has reinforced the company’s pay-for-potential model, empowering managers to determine compensation based on market value and individual contributions rather than standardized performance metrics. With a firm belief that bureaucracy stifles creativity, Ezama has championed an agile, principles-driven HR strategy designed to keep Netflix ahead in an industry that demands constant reinvention.
Born in Spain, Ezama holds a bachelor’s degree in law and a master’s in juridical practice and human resources management from the University of Deusto. Before joining Netflix, he spent two decades at PepsiCo, where he advanced through multiple HR leadership roles across Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and the US, ultimately serving as Global Chief Talent Officer. At Netflix, he oversees global HR operations, ensuring that the company attracts, retains, and develops high-performing talent in a competitive media landscape.
For Ezama, the future of HR is about elevating decision-making through technology without losing sight of human insight. Under his leadership, Netflix is strategically integrating AI to enhance HR operations, providing leaders with real-time data to make informed talent decisions. He views AI not as a replacement for human intuition but as a tool to empower leaders with meaningful insights. This forward-thinking approach, combined with his dedication to fostering a culture of innovation, ensures that Netflix remains a top destination for world-class talent.