Governance
Executive Leadership Team: Steve Yoo (CEO), Dean Kiss (CTO)
Board of Directors: Steve Yoo (Chair), Alana Ford, Michael Bradley, Kalpna S., Cassandra Switaj
Our governance is built upon a single entity, Data Foundation Lab (DFLab), a for-humanity organisation, which operates as a proprietary limited company, DFLab FHO Pty Ltd.
Data Foundation Lab – DFLab FHO
DFLab is a for-humanity organisation committed to advancing the principles of data autonomy and data privacy on a global scale. Through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates cutting-edge research, innovative technology development, and proactive policy advocacy, DFLab strives to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect their data rights.
At the heart of DFLab’s mission is a vision for a future where data privacy is universally acknowledged and upheld as a fundamental human right. This vision drives every aspect of our work, from conducting rigorous research to shaping policies and practices that reinforce data autonomy.
To prevent the risk of losing majority control over our mission and ensure that our goals are in harmony with the overarching mission, we restrict ownership of assets or shares in the company to neither external entities nor the board. Additionally, members of the board do not possess shares in the company but receive nominal compensation for their strategic contributions.
We care about our integrity, and we have therefore established Independent Oversight Council (IOC) in our governance to protect ourselves with-in.
What is a For-Humanity Organisation?
A For-Humanity Organisation (FHO) represents a new shift in organisational purpose, transcending traditional for-profit corporations, non-profits, and social enterprises by embedding the welfare of all humanity and the planet at the core of its mission.
This distinguishes itself through a commitment to sustainable, ethical operations and a circular financial model, where profits are fully reinvested to fuel initiatives aimed at addressing global humanitarian challenges.
Operating with a global perspective, an FHO focuses on creating scalable, universally beneficial solutions that not only tackle today’s issues but also safeguard the interests of future generations, thereby setting a new standard for organisational responsibility, effectiveness, and the role of an entity in promoting global well-being and sustainability.
Independent Oversight Council (IOC)
The Independent Oversight Council (IOC) is established within the Data Foundation Lab as a key guardian of integrity and fairness, tasked with overseeing board members’ conduct and mediating unresolved disputes within the staff and our general members.
Comprising individuals external to the current board and membership, such as industry experts and legal professionals, the IOC‘s roles include serving as a mediator in internal disputes, reviewing allegations of misconduct or performance concerns, and upholding principles of due process, impartiality, and confidentiality.
It is authorised to investigate concerns, provide mediation to achieve amicable resolutions, and make unanimous decisions on board member appointments or removals and dispute resolutions. Additionally, the IOC ensures transparency in its proceedings while protecting individual privacy through detailed record-keeping, communication of decisions, and adherence to confidentiality agreements, emphasising the safeguarding of sensitive information and maintaining confidentiality indefinitely.