2U Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

2U has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, legal, people operations, and presidential oversight.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, 2U empowers individuals worldwide through innovative online learning solutions, fostering career advancement and personal growth across diverse academic and professional landscapes.

Leadership Roles at 2U

  • Chief Executive Officer - Matsuoka K
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Christopher Paucek
  • Chief Financial Officer - Arun Shivdasani
  • President - Paul DeGaeta
  • Chief Technology Officer - Aref Martin
  • Chief of Staff - Laura Prahlad
  • Chief Legal Officer - Lillian Brownstein
  • Chief People Officer - Adam Drudge
  • Matsuoka K - Chief Executive Officer

    Matsuoka K, the Chief Executive Officer at 2U, directs the company's overarching strategic vision and operational execution. This leadership role involves guiding the organization's expansion within the online education sector, focusing on enhancing the delivery of degree programs and alternative credentials. Matsuoka K oversees the integration of technology and services that enable nonprofit colleges and universities to offer online degree programs, targeting both undergraduate and graduate students. The Chief Executive Officer also drives initiatives within the Alternative Credential segment, which provides online courses, executive education, and skills-based boot camps. By fostering partnerships and optimizing platform offerings, Matsuoka K ensures 2U remains at the forefront of educational innovation, addressing the evolving needs of students seeking career advancement and personal development. The Chief Executive Officer's strategic direction impacts the company's market position and financial performance.

    Christopher Paucek - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Christopher Paucek, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at 2U, established the company's foundational mission to transform higher education through technology. This executive leadership position involves setting the strategic direction for both the Degree Program and Alternative Credential segments. Christopher Paucek guides the development of technology and services that empower nonprofit colleges and universities to deliver online degree programs effectively. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer also champions the expansion of alternative credentials, including online courses, executive education, and skills-based boot camps, catering to individuals seeking to reskill or upskill. By fostering innovation and strategic partnerships, Christopher Paucek ensures 2U's offerings meet the dynamic demands of the global education market. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer's vision drives the company's commitment to expanding access to quality education and facilitating career development for a diverse student population.

    Arun Shivdasani - Chief Financial Officer

    Arun Shivdasani, the Chief Financial Officer at 2U, manages the company's financial strategy and fiscal operations. This critical role involves overseeing all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting to ensure the company's economic health and sustainable growth. Arun Shivdasani directs the allocation of resources across the Degree Program and Alternative Credential segments, supporting the delivery of online education and credentialing services. The Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in managing investor relations and securing funding to support 2U's technological advancements and market expansion. By analyzing financial performance and identifying opportunities for efficiency, Arun Shivdasani ensures robust financial management. This leadership ensures the company can continue to invest in innovative educational solutions and maintain its competitive edge in the global online learning landscape.
    Arun Shivdasani

    Paul DeGaeta - President

    Paul DeGaeta, the President at 2U, directs significant operational aspects of the company, contributing to its strategic growth and market presence. This leadership role involves overseeing key business functions and driving initiatives that enhance 2U's service offerings in online education. Paul DeGaeta works to ensure the effective delivery of both degree programs and alternative credentials, collaborating with university partners and internal teams. The President plays a vital part in optimizing operational efficiency and fostering innovation across the organization. By focusing on strategic execution and cross-functional collaboration, Paul DeGaeta supports the company's mission to expand access to quality education globally. This executive's leadership ensures that 2U continues to meet the evolving needs of students and educational institutions worldwide.

    Aref Martin - Chief Technology Officer

    Aref Martin, the Chief Technology Officer at 2U, leads the company's technological infrastructure and innovation strategy. This executive position involves architecting and implementing the technology solutions that power 2U's online education platform, supporting both degree programs and alternative credentials. Aref Martin oversees the development and maintenance of the technology that enables nonprofit colleges and universities to deliver high-quality online learning experiences. The Chief Technology Officer also drives the evolution of edX.org, ensuring a seamless and accessible marketplace for a wide range of online offerings. By focusing on scalability, security, and user experience, Aref Martin ensures that 2U's technological capabilities meet the demands of a growing global student base and educational partners. This leadership ensures the platform's continuous improvement and its ability to adapt to emerging educational technologies.

    Laura Prahlad - Chief of Staff

    Laura Prahlad, the Chief of Staff at 2U, provides strategic support and operational coordination across the executive leadership team. This role involves facilitating the execution of key company initiatives and ensuring alignment between departmental objectives and the overall corporate strategy. Laura Prahlad works closely with the Chief Executive Officers and other C-suite leaders to streamline operations and enhance organizational efficiency. The Chief of Staff plays a vital part in managing cross-functional projects, driving strategic planning processes, and ensuring effective communication throughout the organization. By optimizing workflows and supporting executive decision-making, Laura Prahlad contributes to the smooth functioning of 2U's operations in both the Degree Program and Alternative Credential segments. This leadership ensures that strategic priorities are translated into actionable plans and successfully implemented across the company.
    Lillian Brownstein, the Chief Legal Officer at 2U, oversees all legal affairs and ensures compliance with relevant regulations across the company's global operations. This executive position involves managing legal risks, advising on corporate governance, and supporting strategic initiatives with legal expertise. Lillian Brownstein guides the company through complex legal landscapes, particularly concerning online education, intellectual property, and data privacy. The Chief Legal Officer plays a crucial role in structuring partnerships with universities and other organizations, ensuring all agreements are legally sound and protect 2U's interests. By providing strategic legal counsel, Lillian Brownstein supports the company's expansion in both degree programs and alternative credentials. This leadership ensures that 2U operates with integrity and adheres to the highest legal and ethical standards in all its endeavors.

    Adam Drudge - Chief People Officer

    Adam Drudge, the Chief People Officer at 2U, leads the company's human resources strategy and talent management initiatives. This executive role focuses on cultivating a positive and productive work environment that supports 2U's mission of transforming education. Adam Drudge oversees all aspects of employee relations, talent acquisition, compensation, and benefits, ensuring the company attracts and retains top talent across its global operations. The Chief People Officer plays a key part in developing organizational culture and fostering employee engagement, which is critical for driving innovation in the online education sector. By implementing effective people strategies, Adam Drudge ensures that 2U's workforce is equipped to support the delivery of high-quality degree programs and alternative credentials. This leadership is instrumental in building a strong, cohesive team dedicated to educational excellence.
    Adam Drudge

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding 2U Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads 2U?
    2U is led by Matsuoka K (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Christopher Paucek (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Arun Shivdasani (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of 2U’s executive team?
    The executive team of 2U includes leaders such as Matsuoka K (Chief Executive Officer), Christopher Paucek (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Arun Shivdasani (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does 2U have?
    2U has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in 2U’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of 2U includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief Technology Officer.