Professional Overview
Stephen Balkam is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI), a non-profit organization dedicated to making the online world safer for families and children. With over three decades of experience in the technology and internet policy sectors, Balkam is a recognized leader in online safety, digital citizenship, and the ethical development of emerging technologies.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Founder and CEO of FOSI, Balkam is responsible for setting the strategic vision and leading the organization's efforts to promote best practices, inform policy decisions, and empower users to navigate the digital landscape safely. Under his guidance, FOSI has become a trusted resource for parents, educators, policymakers, and technology companies, working collaboratively to address the evolving challenges of the online world.
Career Progression
Prior to FOSI, Balkam held leadership roles at several prominent organizations in the internet policy and content moderation space. He served as the Founder and CEO of the Internet Content Rating Association (ICRA), where he pioneered the development of a global content labeling system. Earlier in his career, Balkam was the Executive Director of the Recreational Software Advisory Council (RSAC), where he oversaw the implementation of the RSAC content rating system for video games and software.
Balkam's diverse professional background also includes roles as a Consultant, Trainer, and Facilitator at Balkam & Associates, as well as positions at the National Stepfamily Association, Camden Community Transport Ltd., and the Institute of Contemporary Arts.
Academic Background
Balkam holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of London, where he focused on Political Science and International Relations.
Areas of Expertise
Balkam's expertise spans online safety, digital citizenship, content moderation, technology policy, and the ethical development of emerging technologies. He is a recognized thought leader in these domains, frequently speaking at industry conferences and contributing to policy discussions at the national and international levels.
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Balkam has played a crucial role in shaping the online safety landscape. He has been instrumental in the development and implementation of content rating systems, advocating for more responsible and user-centric approaches to technology development and deployment. Under his leadership, FOSI has forged partnerships with leading technology companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to drive positive change and empower families to navigate the digital world with confidence.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, deep industry knowledge, and unwavering commitment to online safety, Stephen Balkam continues to be a driving force in the evolving landscape of digital technology and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. As the Founder and CEO of FOSI, he is dedicated to fostering a safer, more inclusive, and ethically-conscious online environment for all.
