Shutterstock Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Shutterstock has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, human resources, and technology.

Driven by a commitment to empowering creation, Shutterstock operates as the leading global platform for licensing diverse, high-quality creative assets, fueling transformative brands and digital media companies worldwide.

Leadership Roles at Shutterstock

  • Chief Executive Officer - Paul Hennessy
  • Chief Financial Officer - Rik Powell
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Sarah Birmingham
  • Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Security Officer & Interim Chief Technology Officer - Courtney Totten
  • Paul Hennessy - Chief Executive Officer

    Paul Hennessy, the Chief Executive Officer at Shutterstock, directs the company's overarching strategy and market positioning. Overseeing global operations, Paul Hennessy ensures Shutterstock remains the premier partner for transformative brands and digital media companies. This leadership role involves driving product innovation and expanding the platform's extensive collection of 3D models, videos, music, and photographs. By leveraging a growing data engine and a fearless approach, Hennessy secures Shutterstock's position as a leader in licensing creative content. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on empowering the world to create with confidence through cutting-edge technology and unparalleled resource selection.

    Rik Powell - Chief Financial Officer

    Rik Powell, the Chief Financial Officer at Shutterstock, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing all financial operations, Rik Powell ensures robust capital allocation and drives profitable growth across Shutterstock's global platform. This critical role involves managing investor relations, optimizing financial performance, and supporting strategic initiatives that enhance Shutterstock's market leadership. By maintaining rigorous financial discipline, Powell enables the company to invest in innovative technology and expand its comprehensive content offerings. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital for sustaining Shutterstock's position as a transformative partner for brands and media companies worldwide.
    Rik Powell

    Sarah Birmingham - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Sarah Birmingham, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Shutterstock, leads the company's talent strategy and organizational development. Overseeing all human capital initiatives, Sarah Birmingham cultivates a dynamic and inclusive culture that empowers Shutterstock's global workforce. This position is central to attracting, retaining, and developing the talent necessary to drive product innovation and maintain Shutterstock's leadership in creative content licensing. Birmingham ensures that HR policies align with the company's mission to empower the world to create with confidence. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic direction supports the growth of millions of creators and the company's extensive platform.

    Courtney Totten - Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Security Officer & Interim Chief Technology Officer

    Courtney Totten, the Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Security Officer & Interim Chief Technology Officer at Shutterstock, directs the company's technology infrastructure and information security. Overseeing critical IT operations and cybersecurity measures, Courtney Totten ensures the integrity and scalability of Shutterstock's leading global platform. This multifaceted role involves driving technological innovation, safeguarding sensitive data, and guiding the development of cutting-edge solutions that enhance Shutterstock's content marketplace. Totten's leadership ensures the robust performance of the platform, supporting millions of creators and transformative brands. The Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Security Officer & Interim Chief Technology Officer's strategic vision is integral to Shutterstock's technological advancement and market dominance.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Broadcasting

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Shutterstock Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Shutterstock?
    Shutterstock is led by Paul Hennessy (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Rik Powell (Chief Financial Officer) and Sarah Birmingham (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Shutterstock’s executive team?
    The executive team of Shutterstock includes leaders such as Paul Hennessy (Chief Executive Officer), Rik Powell (Chief Financial Officer), Sarah Birmingham (Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Shutterstock have?
    Shutterstock has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Shutterstock’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Shutterstock includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Security Officer & Interim Chief Technology Officer.