Dr Warren Williams

Governance | Digital equity | Strategic leadership

People should drive technology, not have technology drive them.

I’m a chief executive and company director with more than 30 years across technology, business, tertiary education and governance. My work centres on making sure digital change serves people, especially Māori, Pasifika and communities often left behind.

Ko wai au

I'm of Tūhoe and Waikato descent, affiliated to Te Urewera and Ngāti Māhanga hapū. It is through my cultural awareness that the name ‘Digital Taniwha’ was created.

A taniwha is the name of a spiritual creature in Māori culture. The word taniwha is also known as a guardian or leader in many Māori tribes, and it is this context in which it is used.

I see my role as guarding people's interests as they take part in the digital world.

Pirongia. Photo: Phillip Capper, CC BY 2.0

Now

I'm Tumu Whakarae | Chief Executive of Katoa Connect Trust, which delivers digital inclusion programmes across Aotearoa. I also lead the NZ Digital Equity Index, a national measure of who is and isn't getting the benefits of a digital society.

Governance

I've served as both chair and director across tertiary education, research and education infrastructure, online safety, regional development and digital identity. My current appointments include the Council of Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, where I chair the AI Committee, and the board of REANNZ.

I'm open to chair and director roles, including Crown entities, where my experience in digital strategy, AI governance and equity can make a difference.

What I bring to the board table

Digital strategy and AI governance
Māori engagement in technology
Research and education infrastructure
Regional and community development

I hold a PhD in Strategic Management, an MBA and a computer science degree with a major in AI.

Get in touch

Open to governance, advisory and speaking conversations.

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