Steven Adler

Steven Adler is known for his contributions to data governance, information policy, and ocean sustainability. Over his career he has advanced international standards for responsible data use, pioneered collaborative governance models, and founded initiatives that bridge technology, policy, and environmental stewardship.

He is formerly the Chief Data Strategist at IBM Watson and a former member of the IBM Academy of Technology Leadership Team. At IBM, he founded the IBM Data Governance Council in 2004, created the Data Governance Maturity Model in 2006, and launched the Information Governance Community, initiatives that helped establish global benchmarks for data governance.

Adler is also the Founder and former CEO of the Ocean Data Alliance, an international consortium dedicated to strengthening ocean science and sustainability through improved data sharing and integration. He has served on the U.S. Commerce Department’s Data Advisory Council, co-chaired standards committees at W3C and OASIS, and advised governments, international organisations, and the private sector on data governance, smart cities, and digital innovation.

He holds multiple patents, has received several U.S. President’s Volunteer Leadership Awards, and was recognised by Treasury & Risk as one of the Top 100 most influential individuals in financial services. Adler has delivered talks at leading global forums, including a TEDx presentation on Africa Open Data, and continues to contribute to international discussions on data, sustainability, and innovation.

Listen to Tuana Yazici, Steven, and Dominic explore how satellite imagery, synthetic aperture radar, radiofrequency sensing and AI analysis are reshaping the detection of shadow fleets and illicit maritime activity. Learn how gaps in monitoring, data governance and evidentiary standards continue to limit global enforcement, and read more about how integrated space and ocean intelligence, legal verification frameworks and coordinated international action will define the future of credible, accountable maritime security.