Ben Parker

Ben Parker has been an international crisis response leader in Syria, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan. He enjoys a parallel reputation as a critical observer of the aid system, in humanitarian diplomacy, and with his work at the intersection of related media and technology. 

He is a proven early adopter in the use of technology and in recognising the influence of media reporting in crisis situations. He installed one of the first Linux systems ever used by the United Nations, launched a pan-African internet news platform, established the leading watchdog media institution for the aid sector, and put pressure on the humanitarian sector to take responsibility for its handling of sensitive personal data. His political acumen placed him in the corridors of UN leadership from New York to Mogadishu and in daily meetings between Ukraine and Russia during the Black Sea Grain Initiative. 

He now works with organisations, networks, and leadership teams to conduct research and analysis, consult with stakeholders, develop strategy, and communicate with clarity and purpose. In Making Sense of Crisis (the clue is in the name) he brings a unique blend of field-tested insight, analytical depth, and creative thinking to every engagement.