Key DIATF Architect Joins Kantara as CTO

The Kantara Initiative has announced the appointment of Dr. Carol Buttle as the organization’s first Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Dr. Buttle joins from the UK government’s Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), where she served as Head of Certification and Assurance.

With extensive experience in designing trust frameworks and understanding regulations related to data privacy and security, Dr. Buttle will play a key role in expanding Kantara’s influence in identity assurance and ensuring the organization’s leadership in identity certification across new markets.

In her new role, Dr. Buttle aims to guide the identity industry towards improved standards, emphasizing the importance of certification not only in terms of regulatory compliance but also for the broader good of citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.

“Standards are everywhere,” said Dr. Buttle. “We all seek assurance that the products we use, the medicines we consume – even the restaurants we visit – meet the appropriate standards and will not cause us harm. It is no different with identity. I see my role not just about certification and approvals. It is about how I can steer the wider industry to improve for the good of individual citizens, and particularly the most vulnerable.”

Kantara Executive Director Kay Chopard highlighted the strategic importance of the CTO role, especially in enhancing international growth and interoperability in identity assurance. The appointment of Dr. Buttle follows the recent onboarding of James Keenan and David Nutbrown to Kantara’s leadership, further strengthening its capabilities in certification delivery and regulatory compliance.

Kantara Board Chair Andrew Hughes stated that Dr. Buttle’s regulatory expertise would support Kantara members engaging with US Federal Agencies and those seeking certification under the UK Digital Identity & Attributes Trust Framework (DIATF).

“Carol’s appointment brings a real depth of regulatory and operational expertise to our leadership,” said Hughes. “It underpins the valuable contribution we already make through our Work Groups and certification programs. Carol brings with her thorough knowledge and expertise of UK requirements and how they might apply in the US.”

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September 30, 2024 – by Tony Bitzionis