Partner Spotlight: Netsafe's Brent Carey

This week's Spotlight is on Brent Carey, CEO at Netsafe

We caught up with Brent and asked some questions to find out more about him as an individual.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

I’m a legally qualified leader of online safety charity Netsafe who grew up on a dairy farm south of Opunake. I’ve worked for two Privacy Commissioners and an Australian Senator. My careeer has taken me outsdie of New Zealand to work abroad in Australia and Singapore and across Asia in the public and private sector promarily  justice, tech and integrity spaces.  Before becoming CEO of Netsafe I was New Zealand’s second Domain Name Commissioner and spent 5 years in the Australian telecommunicatiomns sector.

How did you get into the area of work you’re in?

I’ve always been interested in access to justice, privacy, integrity and legal spaces.  The role leading New Zealand’s 25 year old online safety charity blends a lot of my interest areas.  When I saw the role advertised for the first time in many years I jumped at the opportunity to apply.

What motivates you to do what you do?

Making a difference, talking up the positive aspects of being online while cautioning folks about the risks. I get to work with some incredibly talented people at Netsafe who are deeply passionate and connected about our purpose of helping people to create safe and positive online spaces.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Be patient and persistent. Life is not so much about what you do but what you get through day to day.

Knowing what you know now, what is one thing you would do differently if you were to start again?

Not being afraid of taking a leap of faith. Often it is the fear of the unknown that holds you back.