John Zoltner

About John Zoltner

John is a globally recognized leader in applying information and communication technologies (ICTs) to accelerate development, respond to humanitarian emergencies and protect vulnerable populations, online and off. John\'s focus is on using technology to improve opportunities for the most resource-poor communities in the world, while protecting children from the dangers technology can present for them. As the Senior Advisor for Technology for Development and Innovation, John leads the Save the Children US T4D practice, a global federation of staff in more than 100 countries. John builds partnerships with technology company Trust and Safety teams and the leading NGOs working to eliminate online harm. He speaks frequently on the topics of online child protection, digital child safeguarding and Artificial Intelligence for mission-based organizations (AI4Good), and is a constant advocate for organizing the ICT4D community to take collective action to reduce online violence against children. John has held a variety of senior executive roles focused on the use of technology to benefit society. He led an internal merger to create the TechLab @ FHI 360 served as Director for Latin America and the Caribbean for Magpi where he developed the multiple award-winning DatAgro project directed resource development for a membership network of more than telecenters and led communications and strategic alliances for Technology Works for Good, a not-for-profit that helps other nonprofits use technology to achieve their missions. In addition to his staff roles, John has held a number of board advisory and governance roles, including for the WePROTECT Global Alliance Technology Working Group, NTEN, a membership organization that helps nonprofits use technology effectively, and for the Public Interest Registry (PIR.ORG), the internet registry responsible for all.org internet domains. John holds both an MBA and a BA in English Literature with a minor in Philosophy from Georgetown University in Washington, DC, where he also taught nonprofit CEOs in the Innovations in Information Technology and Communications class at the GU Center for Public & Nonprofit Leadership certificate program.

Experience

1. Global Lead, Protection from Digital Harm Lead, Technology for Development and Innovation (Ict4d)

   Save the Children US

   Feb 2018 — Present · Portland, OR, US

   Lead global Save the Children\'s Technology for Development and Innovation practice for the Save the Children US and the Taskforce for a Safe and Positive Digital Childhood for the Federation\'s employees working in 118 countries around the world. Launched Save the Children US\' information and communication technology for development (ICT4D) practice in 2018 to improve opportunities for the most marginalized children and communities around the world. Led the T4D Strategy Planning Steering Group in 2020, resulting in the establishment of a new centralized Digital Programming team within Save the Children International. Currently identify technology-based solutions to bolster STC\'s child protection, education, humanitarian response, health and hunger & livelihoods programs, and to promote digital inclusion. Collaborate with the International Programs, US Programs, Partnerships & Philanthropy, and Innovation teams to ensure that ICT4D advisory services meet the demands of technical experts and fundraisers. Co-design humanitarian and development project interventions with technology companies, tech-focused foundations, academics and government agencies. Lead strategy to identify and implement innovative technology solutions that improve STC\'s program results, increase their reach and amplify their impact. Serve as a global thought leader and frequent speaker to position Save the Children as an innovator in online child protection and the use of technology for development. Collaborate with Save the Children International\'s Technology Community of Practice to identify opportunities, build partnerships, write grant or contract proposals, and lead the development of technology-based solutions.

Education

• Georgetown University

  MBA

• Georgetown University

  BA