Profile

Andy Williamson has always been a unique combination of insight, vision and passion for the internet. His work was impressive and invaluable [and] we knew that he would facilitate knowledge without borders.

Dr Hanna Frederick, SmartManukau, Manukau City Council, New Zealand.

An internationally recognised expert in online democracy and citizen engagement, Andy Williamson is an experienced researcher and consultant focussing on ICT, social research and policy across government and civil society. He holds a PhD from Monash University where his research developed a model to support the emergence of eDemocracy.

Andy has a strong inter-sectoral and inter-disciplinary focus and an ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. His work influences policy relating to ICT, eGovernment and eDemocracy in a number of countries. It includes projects on citizen participation in democracy and government, digital content strategies, broadband regulation and service, community technology, ICT security and confidence, access to ICT for minorities, indigenous and disadvantaged communities and ICT for development.

Andy Williamson’s work has provided an excellent framework for discussion at Cape Gateway, to help us understand information flows and where our different constituent communities are in terms of ICT maturity.

Steve Vosloo, Centre for e-Innovation, Provincial Government of the Western Cape, South Africa.

His work co-founding the Aotearoa Ethnic Network, and electronic open-access AEN Journal was acknowledged in an award recognising its outstanding contribution to positive race relations in New Zealand:

Andy Williamson is making an enormous contribution and serves as an inspiration to others who want to do something to ensure that Aotearoa New Zealand lives up to its promise as a place where different peoples can live together in mutual respect and appreciation.

Joris de Bres, Race Relations Commissioner/Kaihautū Whakawhanaunga a Iwi, Human Rights Commission, New Zealand.

His passion is grounded in extensive leadership and management expeience in the private, public and community sector and in technology innovation. Andy has held numerous senior management and board positions. His career is built on a track record in technology innovation, research, evaluation, consultancy and management across information technology, telecommunications, education, government, social policy and economic development. Andy is a strategic thinker and effective communicator.

Andy is an information professional with strong lateral thinking and people skills. His ability to probe complex issues and facilitate the thinking of a group is second to none.

Dean Prebble, Director, New Zealand Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Formerly Deputy Chair of the Digital Strategy Advisory Group, Andy contributes to the New Zealand Government's online participation community of practice and is an advisor to various UK Government Departments and to the National Assembly for Wales. He is a well published author, recently co-editing a book on grounded community-based research, and a sought after commentator on eDemocracy and digital inclusion.

Above all, Andy recognises the value of people and is able to work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders at all levels.

Andy is a recognised expert on e-democracy and the interaction of social and technology issues. He brings to these issues both a sound understanding of technology and deep insights into their social context.

Hon David Cunliffe MP, Minister for Communications and IT, New Zealand Government