Gisli Olafsson

Secretary General - CEO, Rauði krossinn - Icelandic Red Cross
Keflavík, Southern Peninsula,Iceland
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Who Is Gisli Olafsson?

Total Experience26 years
CompanyRauði krossinn - Icelandic Red Cross
CountryIceland

Gisli Olafsson is a distinguished technology executive and humanitarian leader with over two decades of experience in leveraging technology for social impact, disaster response, and international development. He currently serves as the Chief Technology Officer at One Acre Fund, focusing on empowering smallholder farmers in Africa through innovative technology solutions. Prior to this, Gisli was renowned for his role as the Emergency Response Director at NetHope, where he led global efforts to provide critical connectivity and technology support in the aftermath of major disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, and health crises. His career has been marked by a deep commitment to using technology to solve complex global challenges, improve lives, and enhance the efficiency of humanitarian operations. He is a recognized thought leader, speaker, and advocate for 'technology for good'.

How Did Gisli Olafsson's Career Path Shape Their Journey?

Gisli Olafsson's work history includes a series of influential roles in various companies. Here is a detailed list of his professional journey:

Rauði krossinn - Icelandic Red Cross - Secretary General - CEO(2025 to Present)
Ushahidi - Board Member(2024 to Present)
KLAK - Venture Mentoring Service - VMS Mentor(2023 to Present)
Alþingi - Parliament of Iceland - Member Of Parliament, Iceland(2021 to 2024)
Antler - Advisor(2019 to 2021)
Unknown Company - Executive Coach to Transformational Leaders(2021 to 2021)
One Acre Fund - Chief Technology Officer(2019 to 2021)
WeRobotics - Board Member(2016 to 2020)
Icelandic Red Cross - Rauði krossinn - Board Member(2018 to 2020)
NetHope - Humanitarian Advisor(2015 to 2019)

What Are Gisli Olafsson's Key Achievements?

Leadership in Global Disaster Tech Response (NetHope)

As Emergency Response Director at NetHope, Gisli spearheaded technology coordination and connectivity efforts in numerous major international crises, including the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, the Syrian refugee crisis, and the West Africa Ebola outbreak, directly impacting the effectiveness of humanitarian aid delivery.

Pioneering Technology for Development (One Acre Fund)

As CTO of One Acre Fund, he is driving the organization's digital transformation strategy to scale its operations and enhance services for millions of smallholder farmers across Africa, utilizing data, mobile technology, and other innovations to improve agricultural productivity and livelihoods.

Advocacy and Thought Leadership in 'Tech for Good'

A prominent international speaker and writer, Gisli has consistently advocated for the strategic use of technology in the humanitarian and development sectors, influencing policy, inspiring innovation, and fostering collaboration between tech companies and NGOs.

Co-founder of Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR) Youth Program

Early in his career, he co-founded and led the youth program for ICE-SAR, instilling principles of volunteerism and emergency preparedness, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to community service and emergency response.

Microsoft Humanitarian and Disaster Response Contributions

During his tenure at Microsoft, he was instrumental in developing and implementing strategies for the company's involvement in humanitarian relief efforts, leveraging Microsoft's technology and resources to support disaster-stricken communities.

What's Gisli Olafsson's Educational Background?

Master's degree, International Development

Háskóli Íslands - Year 2017

Diploma, International Development

Háskóli Íslands - Year 2013

B.Sc., Computer Science and Chemistry

Københavns Universitet - Year 1991

N/A, Chemistry

Háskóli Íslands - Year 1989

High School Diploma, Exchange Student

Mountain View High School - Year 1987

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Company Overview

Rauði krossinn - Icelandic Red Cross
Total employees200
HeadquartersReykjavík
Founded1924

Rauði krossinn (The Icelandic Red Cross) is an independent humanitarian organization, part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. It works to alleviate human suffering and provides assistance without discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class, or political opinions. Key activities include disaster relief and preparedness, first aid training and services, social support services for vulnerable groups (e.g., elderly, refugees, asylum seekers), health promotion, psychological support, and international aid programs. The organization relies heavily on volunteers and public donations to carry out its mission across Iceland and abroad.

Rauði krossinn - Icelandic Red Cross Funding Information
Unknown - Total Funding Raised
not applicable - Most recent funding amount
not applicable - Number of funding rounds
not applicable - Latest funding round
Lead Investors:
Not applicable as a non-profit humanitarian organization. Funding primarily comes from public donations, government grants, corporate partnerships, fundraising events, and membership fees.

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