September 6, 2023 – The Institute for Security and Technology announced today the addition of Ben Purser as Vice President for Geostrategic Risk. Ben will lead IST’s efforts to improve public-private sector alignment on technology policy, particularly with respect to China. Ben comes to IST from Meta, where he worked on the Strategic Response team under the leadership of Sheryl Sandberg and led forward-looking public policy programs on Nick Clegg’s team. Prior to Meta, Ben served as a Deputy Assistant Secretary of State (DAS) in the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs and in the Bureau for International Security and Nonproliferation.
“As countries and companies work to align their approaches to emerging technologies, it’s increasingly important to help leaders in technology and policy appreciate opportunities to work together towards shared goals,” said Ben. “I’m excited to join IST and help lead its work in this important area.”
A public servant for over 15 years, Ben has held a number of positions at the intersection of policy and technology. While at the State Department, he worked to develop and execute global policies, including an operation to denuclearize North Korea, led diplomatic delegations, and coordinated with foreign governments on policies and programs. Ben also served on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee from 2015 to 2018, where he led the team for Europe and Eurasia. He served as an intelligence officer in the United States Navy from 2002 to 2011.
“As we expand our efforts within IST’s Geopolitics of Technology pillar of work, we are thrilled to welcome Ben to IST,” said Chief Executive Officer Philip Reiner. “A longtime public servant with a deep understanding of both the public and private sector risks–and opportunities–that technology presents to global security, Ben brings a wealth of leadership, experience and knowledge to our growing team.”