Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Robert Carolina is an experienced legal professional with a strong background in technology, cybersecurity, and intellectual property. As the General Counsel for Internet Systems Consortium, he provides strategic legal guidance and oversees all legal matters for the organization. Additionally, he serves on key advisory committees at ICANN, contributing his expertise in internet governance and security. Alongside his corporate responsibilities, Robert maintains an active academic career as a Senior Teaching Fellow at Royal Holloway, University of London, where he has been sharing his knowledge and insights with students for over two decades.
Experience Summary
Current Roles
General Counsel, Internet Systems Consortium (2020 - Present)
- Provides comprehensive legal support and strategic counsel to the organization
- Oversees all legal matters, including contract negotiations, intellectual property protection, and regulatory compliance
- Collaborates cross-functionally to ensure legal considerations are incorporated into key business decisions
Root Server System Advisory Committee (RSSAC), ICANN (2023 - Present)
- Serves as a member of the RSSAC, providing expert advice and recommendations on the operation, administration, and enhancement of the Root Server System
Root Server System Governance Working Group (RSS GWG), ICANN (2022 - Present)
- Contributes to the development of policies and best practices for the governance of the Root Server System
Senior Teaching Fellow, Information Security Group, Royal Holloway, University of London (1999 - Present)
- Shares his extensive knowledge and expertise in information security, cybersecurity, and technology law with students
- Develops and delivers engaging course content, participates in research projects, and supervises student theses
Lawyer, Origin Ltd (2003 - Present)
- Provides legal services and counsel to clients in the areas of intellectual property and technology
Past Roles
Executive Director, Institute for Cyber Security Innovation, Royal Holloway, University of London (2014 - 2019)
- Led the institute's research and outreach initiatives, fostering collaborations with industry and academia
Challenge Fellow, Discribe: the Digital Security by Design Social Science Hub+ (2020 - 2023)
- Contributed his expertise in cybersecurity and digital infrastructure to the Discribe project, a multidisciplinary initiative exploring the social implications of secure-by-design technologies
Partner, PwC Legal (2002)
- Provided legal advice and support to clients within the PwC network
Partner, Tarlo Lyons (1998 - 2001)
- Advised clients on a range of legal matters, including intellectual property and technology
Lawyer, Clifford Chance (1993 - 1997)
- Gained valuable experience in a leading international law firm
Assistant General Counsel, InterCon Systems Corporation (1992)
- Provided in-house legal support to the technology company
Academic Background
Robert Carolina holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from the University of Cambridge, where he graduated with honors. His education has provided him with a strong foundation in legal principles and a deep understanding of the intersections between law, technology, and cybersecurity.
Areas of Expertise
- Technology law and intellectual property
- Cybersecurity and information security
- Internet governance and policy
- Contract negotiation and compliance
- Cross-functional collaboration and strategic decision-making
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Robert Carolina has made significant contributions to the fields of technology law, cybersecurity, and internet governance. His involvement with ICANN's advisory committees has helped shape policies and best practices for the critical Root Server System, ensuring the stability and security of the internet infrastructure. As a Senior Teaching Fellow, he has mentored and inspired countless students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex legal and security challenges in the digital age.
Conclusion
With over three decades of experience in the legal and technology sectors, Robert Carolina has established himself as a respected authority in the field of technology law and cybersecurity. His diverse background, spanning corporate legal practice, academic research, and industry advisory roles, has uniquely positioned him to provide strategic counsel and drive innovation in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
