John C. Havens

John C. Havens is a globally respected cyber security and AI ethics speaker, renowned for his thought leadership at the intersection of emerging technology and ethical governance. As Executive Director of the IEEE Global Initiative on Ethics of Autonomous and Intelligent Systems, John leads a pioneering organisation of over 700 volunteers dedicated to embedding human-centric values into advanced AI development. Under his stewardship, the initiative produced a seminal ethical framework for autonomous systems—one now adopted by major institutions such as the OECD, UN and IBM. John’s role in shaping this global conversation makes him an indispensable voice in responsible technology design.

With a BA in History from Messiah University, John began his career in the arts, performing as a Principal Actor across Broadway, film and television. This unique background enhances his storytelling as a speaker, enabling him to convey complex cyber and AI issues with clarity and impact. Early in the digital revolution, he authored the first About.com Guide to Podcasting and launched multiple ventures, including Podcast Vision and Voice. His keen insights into ROI from online and social media platforms positioned him ahead of the curve during the rise of digital communication and media ethics.

John’s advisory expertise spans major corporate and government clients, including Ford, The Pentagon, Walmart, and P&G, gained through senior roles at Blog Talk Radio and Porter Novelli. Beyond industry, he holds influential positions such as Executive Director of The Council on Extended Intelligence and Sustainability Practice Lead at the IEEE Standards Association. His appointment to the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Human Rights and Technology underscores his authority on the ethical dimensions of AI and digital rights. These roles speak to his unparalleled ability to bridge policy, business, and innovation.

An acclaimed author of “Heartificial Intelligence” and “Hacking Happiness”, John’s work has been featured in The Guardian, Mashable, USA Today and the BBC. Through captivating keynote addresses and strategic workshops, he equips audiences with vital tools to navigate the ethical, social and economic implications of AI, IoT, and extended reality technologies. Hire John C. Havens via The Cyber Security Speakers Agency to bring globally recognised expertise, insight, and inspiration to your next event.