Leadership in Tech
Leadership in tech is no longer defined only by innovation or execution. If we look back at every wave of technological progress, it began with someone willing to question the obvious, spot a problem, and decide not to wait for others to build the solution.
Raising standards and scaling up are also important factors, but why we build at all, and who our work truly serves, has always mattered more. That's how our speakers have approached things, and they'll be joining us at this event to share their journeys and mindset.
With the support of Linnify, on the eve of the vibrant days of SXSW in Austin, we're gathering for a conversation that goes beyond the product, focused on the human side of building technology.
Meet the speakers
Mir Hwang is the Founder & CEO of GigFinesse, a leading music technology company powering live entertainment across venues nationwide. Under his leadership, GigFinesse has raised over $15M in funding from Bessemer Venture Partners, NYU Innovation Venture Fund, NJME Investments, and other prominent industry angels, establishing itself as the fastest-growing live entertainment platform in hospitality.
Named to Forbes 30 Under 30 and Crain’s 20 in their 20s, GigFinesse is revolutionizing how venues and artists connect, from intimate local spaces to major concert halls.
Cris Pop, founder of Thunder, will moderate the conversation. Cris leads a company that builds mission-driven software products. With a civic mindset and a focus on a people-first culture, he believes in principles such as leadership, ownership, and purpose while creating technology and inspiring change through community events and initiatives.
He will bring a thoughtful perspective on how founders and teams can align software with civic responsibility and long-term impact.
Who should attend
Tech founders & executives
Product leaders & engineering managers
HR & culture leaders
Startup ecosystem builders & investors
Community leaders & social impact innovators
Join us
Many of us came into tech driven by the belief that code, products, and platforms could make a real impact. But between sprint cycles, product launches, scaling challenges, and pivot after pivot, it’s easy for that original purpose to feel distant. This is the space to reconnect with it and remember why we build.
Come for the ideas. Stay for the people, the stories, the questions, and the shared commitment to building technology that truly serves.
Date: March 11, 2026
Location: Hanover Republic Square, Austin, Texas
Check-in: 6:30 PM | Starting at 7 PM
Snacks and drinks included