Baroness Joanna Shields OBE is a renowned authority in artificial intelligence, technology, and cybersecurity, recognised for her transformative impact across both the public and private sectors. Currently serving as the CEO of Precognition, she leads the company in developing AI-driven solutions to help leaders anticipate and address future challenges. Previously, as CEO of BenevolentAI, Joanna expanded the company's AI capabilities in drug discovery, steering it from a startup to a clinical-stage company focused on decoding complexities of biology to advance human health.
Joanna’s career in the tech industry spans over three decades, where she held senior leadership roles at some of the world’s most iconic tech companies. At Google and Facebook, she was instrumental in scaling their international operations and building global teams responsible for unprecedented growth. As President and CEO of Bebo, she spearheaded the company's acquisition by AOL Time Warner for $850 million, making strides in online video content well before the rise of streaming giants like Netflix.
Her influence extends to public service, where she served as the UK Minister for Internet Safety and Security, working on some of the most pressing global issues at the intersection of technology and society. During her tenure, she developed groundbreaking solutions to tackle cybercrime, online exploitation, and extremism, including the creation of AI-based tools to address harmful online content. She is also the founder of the WeProtect Global Alliance, a multi-stakeholder organisation dedicated to combating child sexual abuse online.
In addition to her government roles, Joanna has contributed significantly to various high-profile initiatives, including serving as a Non-Executive Director of the London Stock Exchange Group, Chairman of TechCity UK, and Co-Chair of the UK Council for Child Internet Safety. She currently holds influential positions in several international organisations focused on AI and cybersecurity, such as the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on AI, the Transatlantic Commission on Election Integrity, and the Council on Foreign Relations.
With recognition like being named No.1 on Wired’s 100 Most Powerful UK Digital Influencers and No.6 on the MediaGuardian 100, as well as receiving the British Interactive Media Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award, Joanna’s reputation as a tech pioneer is well-established.
A sought-after speaker at global events like WeAreTechWomen, Wired, and the Institute of Directors Annual Conference, Joanna engages corporate and public audiences alike with her unique expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and digital safety. Her mission is to inspire the next generation of leaders to build responsible, human-centred technology that benefits society as a whole.
