Toby Ord

Toby Ord is a globally respected cyber security and existential risk speaker, known for his compelling insights into humanity’s most profound challenges. A Senior Research Fellow at Oxford University’s Future of Humanity Institute, Toby brings rigorous academic depth and philosophical clarity to urgent global issues. His expertise lies in identifying and mitigating existential risks—threats that could permanently curtail humanity’s potential. With a unique ability to translate complex ethical questions into actionable strategies, Toby’s work resonates deeply with policy-makers, technologists, and global leaders, particularly in fields where cyber security intersects with global risk.

Toby’s academic journey began at the University of Melbourne, where he studied philosophy and mathematics before completing his B.Phil. and D.Phil. at Oxford. His early work in moral philosophy laid the foundation for his pivotal role in co-founding the Effective Altruism movement—a philosophy and social project using evidence and reason to do the most good. In 2009, he launched Giving What We Can, inspiring thousands worldwide to pledge a portion of their income to the most effective charities, a commitment now worth over $1.5 billion.

His reputation as a thought leader was cemented with the publication of “The Precipice” in 2020, followed by “The Precipice Revisited” in 2024. These landmark books have shaped global discourse on existential threats, from pandemics and nuclear war to unaligned artificial intelligence—an area closely tied to cyber security. Toby has since advised organisations including the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and the UK Prime Minister’s Office, offering strategic insights on safeguarding humanity’s long-term future in an increasingly interconnected and digital world.

Toby Ord’s speaking engagements offer a rare chance to learn from one of the world’s foremost thinkers on ethical risk, security, and global responsibility. Whether addressing the ethical implications of AI or outlining strategies to mitigate catastrophic threats, Toby brings unparalleled clarity and urgency to the conversation. Hire Toby Ord via The Cyber Security Speakers Agency to empower your audience with the knowledge and foresight to navigate the risks of tomorrow.