Early Life and Career Beginnings
Dr. Catriona Wallace was born in 1965/1966 and is an Australian businesswoman, TV personality, former police officer, and a prominent figure in the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and the metaverse. She identifies as a gender non-binary grandmother (she/they) and has played a key role in the Psychedelic Renaissance, making her an innovative leader in various fields, including technology, ethics, and gender identity.
Wallace began her professional journey at the age of 19 when she joined the New South Wales Police Force, serving in some of Sydney’s most challenging precincts, including Kings Cross and The Rocks. After nearly four years of police work, Wallace decided to pursue higher education, earning an undergraduate degree in arts, followed by a master’s degree, and a PhD in 2007 from the University of New South Wales. Her doctoral research examined the role of technology as a substitute for leadership, laying the groundwork for her future career in technology.
Founding Flamingo AI and Leadership in AI Ethics
In 2013, Dr. Wallace founded Flamingo AI, a company specializing in AI-driven solutions for customer service and sales. Flamingo AI became the second woman-led business to list on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX), marking a significant milestone in the tech industry. The company developed advanced chatbot systems used by leading companies like Credit Union Australia, Chubb Limited, and AMP Limited. Wallace served as the CEO of Flamingo AI until 2019 when the company sold its assets to private investors.
In addition to Flamingo AI, Wallace is the founder of the Responsible Metaverse Alliance, launched in 2022, which addresses safety and legal issues in the emerging metaverse, including concerns about sexual harassment. Through these initiatives, Wallace has become a global advocate for the responsible use of AI and technology.
Academic and Thought Leadership
Dr. Wallace is an Adjunct Professor at the Australian Graduate School of Management at the University of New South Wales, where she educates future leaders about AI and technology ethics. She is also a prolific contributor to discussions on artificial intelligence, ethics, and the future of customer experience, and has co-authored the book Checkmate Humanity: The How and Why of Responsible AI in 2022.
Her expertise is widely recognized in the tech industry, earning her spots on boards like Boab AI and previously with the Garvan Institute and Gradient Institute. Wallace was also co-chair of Sir Richard Branson’s The B Team, an initiative dedicated to ethical business leadership.
Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Wallace has been widely recognized for her pioneering work in AI and business leadership. In 2018, she won the Business and Entrepreneur category at the Australian Financial Review’s Women of Influence Awards and was inducted into the Royal Institution of Australia as one of the country’s leading scientists.
Internationally, she was named among the Top 9 Female Entrepreneurs by the Sydney Morning Herald and listed as one of the Top 30 Women Redefining Business by Women’s Agenda. Wallace has also been awarded Advance Australia’s highest honor in Technology & Innovation for Australians working abroad, cementing her status as one of the most influential figures in global AI and ethics discussions.
Shark Tank and Public Influence
In March 2023, Wallace joined the cast of Shark Tank Australia on Network 10, becoming one of the new “Sharks” on the show. Despite initially declining the offer, she eventually accepted the role, succeeding the original cast when the program returned. This role further solidified her position as a business leader and public figure in the entrepreneurial community.
Philanthropy and Personal Life
Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Catriona Wallace is a dedicated philanthropist and human rights activist. She serves on the board of Responsible Technology Australia and is a vocal advocate for ethical technology practices. Wallace is also the mother of five children and a devoted grandmother, balancing her personal life with her high-profile career in technology and business.
Conclusion
Dr. Catriona Wallace’s influence spans across multiple domains—from AI technology and metaverse ethics to gender advocacy and leadership. Her career reflects a deep commitment to responsible innovation and the integration of AI in ways that benefit both businesses and society. As a thought leader, entrepreneur, and ethical innovator, Dr. Wallace continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in technology, while ensuring that ethical considerations remain at the forefront.
