Ivan Zhao’s approach to business isn’t merely about building a product—it’s about crafting an experience. As the creative force behind Notion, Zhao seamlessly integrates his background in cognitive science with his passion for design to redefine productivity software. His philosophy, inspired by computing pioneers like Douglas Engelbart, emphasizes tools that “augment human intellect.” Notion’s intuitive interface and modular design reflect this vision, enabling users to work smarter, not harder. Zhao’s emphasis on creating tools that empower rather than overwhelm is what has set Notion apart in a crowded marketplace. Despite its meteoric rise, he has kept the team lean and mission-focused, raising over $330 million with low dilution.
Born in China and raised in Canada, Zhao pursued cognitive science at the University of British Columbia, where his fascination with human behavior and technology began. His academic foundation provided a holistic problem-solving mindset, which he later applied to his work in design and engineering roles before co-founding Notion in 2013 with Simon Last. Initially, Notion struggled to gain traction, and financial challenges forced the duo to rebuild the product from scratch in Japan. Through resilience and innovation, they created Notion 2.0, a revolutionary platform that has since become indispensable for millions, including businesses like Pixar and Yale University. Today, Zhao remains at the helm of a $10 billion company with over 30 million users, maintaining an ethos of simplicity and versatility that appeals to both individuals and enterprises.
One of the most striking aspects of Zhao’s leadership is his insistence on balancing aesthetics with functionality. He believes tools should not only perform well but also inspire creativity and joy in their users. This design-first philosophy has cultivated a devoted community, with users sharing workflows and templates that amplify Notion’s versatility. As Notion ventures into the future with AI integrations, Zhao’s mission to democratize computing and amplify human potential continues to resonate, marking him as one of the most innovative leaders in the tech industry.