Baroness Joanna Shields OBE: AI & Tech Visionary
Technology and AI governance keynote speaker Baroness Joanna Shields, UK House of Lords peer and former tech CEO, advances responsible innovation and human-centric artificial intelligence.
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Life peer in the UK House of Lords
- Founder and CEO of Precognition
- Former CEO of BenevolentAI
- Former executive at Google, Facebook, Bebo, and RealNetworks
- First UK Minister for Internet Safety and Security
- Formats: Keynote Speaker on Artificial Intelligence, Digital Governance, and Responsible Technology
- Audiences: Government leaders, technology executives, policymakers, global institutions, and organizations navigating AI governance, digital ethics, and technology innovation.
- Outcomes:
- Strategic understanding of AI governance and responsible innovation
- Insight into balancing technological growth with societal impact
- Frameworks for advancing human-centric digital transformation
- Travels from: London, UK
- **Fee range: On Request
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Popular Talks
- Role of the Digital Sector
- Artificial Intelligence
- Entrepreneurship
- Leadership
- Cyber and Internet Ethics
- Internet Harms and Crime
Talent Short Bio
Baroness Joanna Shields OBE is a globally recognized technology leader, startup CEO, and life peer in the UK House of Lords, dedicated to advancing responsible innovation and human-centric artificial intelligence. With more than three decades at the forefront of the digital revolution, she has shaped the evolution of technology across industry, government, and civil society.
Joanna is Founder and CEO of Precognition, a company focused on helping leaders anticipate the future and build solutions in an AI-driven world. Previously, as CEO of BenevolentAI, she led the company’s transformation from startup to clinical-stage drug discovery leader, building an advanced AI platform capable of translating complex biological data into actionable scientific breakthroughs.
Her executive career spans some of the world’s most influential technology companies. In the early years of Google and Facebook, she built and scaled international operations, driving rapid global growth. As President and CEO of Bebo, she pioneered online original video content and led its $850 million acquisition by AOL Time Warner. She also led Veon to acquisition by Philips NV and held leadership roles at RealNetworks.
Read Full Bio
Baroness Joanna Shields OBE is one of the most influential voices in global technology leadership today a pioneering tech executive, start-up CEO, and life peer in the UK House of Lords dedicated to advancing responsible, human-centric innovation.
With more than three decades at the forefront of digital transformation, Joanna has shaped the evolution of the internet across business, government, and civil society. Her career reflects a rare combination of entrepreneurial vision, corporate scale expertise, and public service leadership.
As Founder and CEO of Precognition, Joanna Shields empowers leaders navigating the AI era to anticipate what’s next and build technology that serves humanity. Previously, as CEO of BenevolentAI, she transformed the company from an early-stage start-up into a clinical-stage drug discovery pioneer, developing an industry-leading AI platform capable of translating the complex language of biology into groundbreaking scientific insights.
Joanna Shields has held senior executive roles at some of the world’s most transformative technology companies. In the early growth phases of Google and Facebook, she led international expansion efforts, building global teams that drove exponential growth in both revenue and user adoption. As President and CEO of Bebo, she pioneered original online video content years before streaming became mainstream, guiding the company through its landmark $850 million acquisition by AOL Time Warner and earning two BAFTA nominations.
Her entrepreneurial leadership also includes scaling Veon into a leader in interactive video streaming ahead of its acquisition by Philips NV, and directing international operations at RealNetworks, a pioneer in streaming audio and video technology.
Between 2013 and 2018, Joanna Shields served in the UK Government as the country’s first Minister for Internet Safety and Security. She also held roles as Digital Economy Advisor to the Prime Minister, UK Ambassador for Digital Industries, and Special Representative on Internet Harms and Crimes. During this time, she spearheaded global initiatives addressing some of the most pressing challenges at the intersection of technology and society including developing AI-driven tools to combat online extremism, exploitation, and abuse.
A leading advocate for global internet safety, Joanna founded the WePROTECT Global Alliance, a coalition of more than 100 member countries committed to tackling online child sexual abuse and exploitation.
View further Artificial Intelligence speakers and follow us on LinkedIn
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses and other costs
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Deposits and securing a booking
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
You may be interested in...
- (16)
Nina Schick is a globally recognized keynote speaker, author, and leading expert on disinformation, artificial intelligence, and the evolving landscape of global politics. With a keen focus on how emerging technologies are reshaping democracy and international relations, Nina has become a sought-after voice in the intersection of technology, media, and policy. Her insights provide invaluable […]
- Travels from: London, UK
- Artificial Intelligence
- (52)
- Featured
- (3)
Sam Rad (Sam Radocchia) is a lifelong student of humanity – futurist, anthropologist, and entrepreneur. She is the founder of Radical Next, a meta-media studio creating transformative stories, experiences, and media productions that shape a positive future. Her upcoming book by the same name, Radical Next: Thriving in Times of Radical Change explores how “radical next ideas” and […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Futurists Speakers
- (12)
- Featured
John Winsor is a globally recognized leader in the future of work and AI-driven workforce strategies. Recently appointed as an Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School’s Digital, Design, and Data Institute, he focuses on the evolving intersection of work, technology, and talent. John is dedicated to empowering leaders to confidently navigate digital disruption and harness […]
- Travels from: Denver, CO
- Strategy Speakers
- (64)
Sir Demis Hassabis is a computer scientist, neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and the founder of DeepMind, the pioneering neuroscience-inspired artificial intelligence company acquired by Google in January 2014. Hassabis began his career in artificial intelligence in the games industry. A chess and programming prodigy, he co-designed and programmed the multi-million-selling construction and management simulation game Theme Park […]
- Travels from: London, UK
- Artificial Intelligence
- (51)
Sophia the Robot is a marvel of artificial intelligence and robotics, captivating audiences worldwide with her human-like appearance and advanced conversational abilities. As the world’s first robot citizen and the inaugural robot Innovation Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme, Sophia embodies the intersection of technology and humanity. Her presence challenges our perceptions of AI […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Humanoids
- (26)
Dr. Gabrielle Pelicci is a trailblazing expert at the intersection of blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, and decentralized innovation. Known as a “Crypto Native,” she empowers audiences to embrace the transformative potential of Web3 and blockchain ecosystems. With her unique blend of academic rigor and real-world expertise, Dr. Pelicci demystifies complex topics, making them accessible and actionable […]
- Travels from: West Palm Beach, FL
- Digital Speakers
- (29)
Allie K. Miller is a pioneering force in artificial intelligence, trusted by Fortune 500 boards and fast-growing startups alike. As one of the youngest-ever leaders to spearhead global AI programs at major technology firms, she has developed and deployed large-scale machine learning solutions that have shaped enterprise strategies worldwide. Renowned for her forward-thinking approach, Allie brings […]
- Travels from: New York, NY
- Artificial Intelligence
- (65)
Dr. Fei-Fei Li is one of the most influential figures shaping the future of technology and artificial intelligence. Often referred to as the “Godmother of AI,” she is the visionary behind ImageNet—the groundbreaking dataset that gave machines the ability to “see,” launching the deep learning revolution that fuels today’s AI applications. From powering tools like […]
- Travels from: Stanford, CA
- Artificial Intelligence
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
