Internet Watch Foundation

The Internet Watch Foundation is the only organisation in the UK which works solely to combat the availability of illegal images on the web.

 

The IWF works in partnership with the UK internet industry, the police, government and the public, to minimise the availability of this online illegal content, with specific reference to child abuse images and aims to foster trust and confidence in the internet for UK web users.

 

The central role of the organisation is the provision of an internet ‘hotline’ which is a free public service which allows web users to report any instances of potentially illegal content they may be exposed to.

 

This model of self-regulation through partnership has proved to be extremely successful in the UK with the percentage of illegal content hosted in the UK being reduced from 18% in 1997 to less than 1% by the end of 2003, a figures which has now been maintained for over 2 years.

 

There is currently a vacancy for the role of Independent Chair of the Foundation, as the current Chair concludes his term at the end of this year.

 

This is a challenging role in a technological and developing environment where the interests of consumers, industry and government must be balanced.

 

We require someone to lead the Board in ensuring it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation and anticipates and responds appropriately to key industry, consumer, policy, political and international changes in regulatory issues

 

The ideal candidate will be able to initiate relations with senior people, nationally and internationally, who will impact on the IWF’s performance, particularly those in government, law enforcement, regulation, industry and voluntary organisations

 

In addition they will need to promote and explain the IWF’s objectives, remit, actions and achievements to key stakeholders and the wider public, acting as an ambassador for the organisation

 

Excellent media and communication skills, at all levels, with an interest and familiarity with The Internet and its use and development are essential.