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Joanna Shields
Explore the intersection of technology and society to foster responsible innovation with Baroness Joanna Shields OBE, speaker, global advocate for ethical AI and online safety.
Baroness Joanna Shields OBE is a prominent figure in the tech industry, serving as a life peer in the UK House of Lords. With over three decades of experience, she has significantly influenced technology innovation across various sectors, including industry, government, and civil society.
Joanna is the founder and CEO of Precognition, a startup focused on helping leaders navigate the AI landscape to create positive solutions. Previously, she led BenevolentAI, transforming it from a startup into a clinical-stage drug discovery company with a leading AI platform that aids scientific discovery.
Her career includes executive roles at major tech companies. At Google and Facebook, she expanded international operations, driving substantial growth. As President and CEO of Bebo, she innovated in online video content and oversaw its $850 million acquisition by AOL Time Warner, earning two BAFTA nominations. Joanna also led Veon in interactive video streaming before its acquisition by Philips NV and managed international operations at Real Networks.
From 2013 to 2018, Joanna served as the UK Government's first Minister for Internet Safety and Security. She also held roles as Digital Economy Advisor to the Prime Minister and UK Ambassador for Digital Industries. During her tenure, she addressed critical issues at the intersection of technology and society, developing AI tools to combat online extremism and exploitation.
As a global advocate for internet safety, Joanna founded the We Protect Global Alliance, which unites over 100 countries in the fight against online child sexual abuse and exploitation. Her work focuses on promoting responsible technology development and human-centric AI.
Joanna has been a twice-elected Co-Chair of the Global Partnership on AI, collaborating with 25 member countries to enhance the organisation's global impact. She is also involved with the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on AI, the Transatlantic Commission on Election Integrity, and the Council on Foreign Relations.
Her commitment to philanthropy centres on leveraging technology to address societal challenges. Joanna's public service aims to foster safe, responsible innovation amid rapid technological change, ensuring that technology serves the public good and addresses the complexities of the digital age.
Topics, sessions and talks
Joanna Shields delivers compelling insights into the evolving challenges and opportunities within technology and society, drawing on her extensive experience as a tech pioneer, government leader, and global advocate. Whether addressing the ethical implications of AI, tackling internet harms, or exploring the transformative role of leadership and entrepreneurship in the digital sector, Joanna blends sharp analysis with practical solutions. Her thought-provoking talks inspire audiences to navigate the digital age responsibly and innovate for a better future.
Book Baroness Joanna Shields OBE to inspire your team with her visionary insights on ethical AI and online safety. Her unparalleled experience in tech and government will empower your organisation to navigate the complexities of innovation responsibly, fostering a culture that prioritises humanity and societal benefit.
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frequently asked questions
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Joanna Shields structures her talks around the intersection of policy experience and operational practice, drawing on her roles as a government minister, company executive, and alliance founder to ground analysis of AI ethics and internet safety in documented case examples.
Baroness Joanna Shields speaks on AI ethics and governance, internet safety and online harms, and technology leadership and entrepreneurship. She served as the UK Government's first Minister for Internet Safety and Security and founded the WeProtect Global Alliance, which unites over 100 countries in the effort to combat online child sexual abuse and exploitation.
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