- Kurtis Lindqvist, a pioneering leader in internet infrastructure and governance, is renowned for his strategic vision and contributions to building a secure, resilient, and inclusive global internet.
- As he steps into his new role at ICANN, Lindqvist brings a wealth of experience and a strategic perspective that will be crucial in navigating the future of internet governance.
OUR TAKE
Kurtis Lindqvist stands out not just for his technical acumen and leadership roles in the digital infrastructure space but also for his thoughtful approach to internet governance. His career reflects a blend of humility and dedication, characterised by a commitment to fostering collaboration and inclusivity within the global internet community. Whether advancing internet exchange points or advocating for an open and secure digital ecosystem, Lindqvist’s journey is marked by a consistent focus on practical solutions and a genuine passion for connecting people.
–Ashley Wang, BTW reporter
Kurt Erik “Kurtis” Lindqvist, a veteran in the field of internet technology and governance, has been a pivotal figure in shaping the infrastructure and policies that underpin the global internet. In Lindqvist’s extensive career, his contributions to internet governance are not to be neglected. With his recent appointment as the President and CEO of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), Lindqvist is poised to continue influencing the trajectory of the internet at a critical juncture in its evolution.
Starting in Sweden and developing further in Switzerland
Lindqvist’s journey into the realm of technology began with a strong academic foundation. He studied Computer Science at Uppsala University in Sweden, where he developed a deep understanding of the technical aspects of computing and networking. This academic background laid the groundwork for his future endeavours in internet technology and governance.
Also read: ICANN appoints Kurtis Lindqvist as new president and CEO
Complementing his technical education, Lindqvist pursued an Executive MBA from the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne, Switzerland. This advanced business education equipped him with strategic and managerial skills, which have been crucial in his leadership roles. The combination of technical expertise and business acumen has made Lindqvist a well-rounded leader, capable of navigating the complexities of the internet landscape.
A wealth of experience in career roles
With over 30 years of experience in the development of Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and worldwide network carriers, Lindqvist has continually played an active role in global internet governance, presenting the world with his ambitious career dedicated to fostering an open, secure, and inclusive Internet.
“From the open architecture to the multistakeholder governance model, the Internet has enabled innovation and transformation of entire industries. “
Kurtis Lindqvist, next president & CEO of ICANN
Pioneering in the internet
At the time when the internet was still in its infancy, Lindqvist began his professional career. In 1992, he was part of a pioneering group that set up one of the first Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) in the Åland Islands, a group of islands located in the Baltic Sea between Sweden and Finland. This early experience was significant in shaping his understanding of network systems and community-driven digital spaces.
Following the precious experience, in 1994, Lindqvist co-founded Alandia Online, one of the first ISPs on the Åland Islands. This venture marked a critical step in bringing the internet to a broader audience in the region, facilitating connectivity and access to digital resources. Lindqvist’s role in Alandia Online demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to expanding internet access.
Pop quiz
What advanced degree did Kurtis Lindqvist pursue to enhance his business acumen?
A. Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Harvard Business School
B. Executive MBA from the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne, Switzerland
C. Master of Science in Computer Science from Stanford University
D. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from Uppsala University in Sweden
The correct answer is at the bottom of the article.
Growth and expansion: The Ålcom era
The late 1990s saw Lindqvist take on more significant challenges. In 1996, he played a key role in the merger of Alandia Online with AalNEt, leading to the creation of Ålcom, which became a prominent ISP in the region. This merger was a strategic move that combined resources and expertise, enhancing the capability to deliver robust internet services.
After that, Lindqvist served as the Technical Director of EUnet Sweden, a position that further expanded his expertise in network management and infrastructure. His work at EUnet, which was one of the first commercial ISPs in Europe, involved overseeing the development and maintenance of network services, a crucial task during a period of rapid internet expansion.
Following his tenure at EUnet, Lindqvist became the Technical Director for KPNQwest Sweden, a leading European data communications and hosting company. In this role, he was responsible for the company’s IP network architectures, working on cutting-edge projects that pushed the boundaries of internet technology.
Leadership at Netnod: A defining period
In June 2002, Lindqvist took on the role of CEO at Netnod, a Swedish internet exchange point operator that also manages critical internet infrastructure, including domain name system (DNS) root servers. His leadership at Netnod was marked by significant achievements, particularly in the areas of internet exchange point management and DNS services which helped distribute the DNS load across multiple servers globally, reducing latency and increasing the security and reliability of DNS resolution. Netnod, under Lindqvist’s guidance, became a model for operational excellence and innovation in the industry.
Lindqvist’s tenure at Netnod lasted 14 years, during which time he solidified the organisation’s position as a key player in global internet governance. His work involved not only the technical and operational aspects of internet infrastructure but also advocacy and policy work, helping to shape the regulatory environment for internet operations.
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The LINX chapter: From CMO to CEO
After leaving Netnod, Lindqvist joined the London Internet Exchange (LINX) as chief marketing officer (CMO) in March 2016. LINX is one of the largest internet exchange points in the world, facilitating significant volumes of internet traffic. In his role as CMO, Lindqvist was responsible for the organisation’s strategic marketing and external communications, focusing on expanding LINX’s global reach and influence.
Three years later, Lindqvist was appointed CEO of LINX, a role in which he continued to promote innovation and collaboration within the internet community. As CEO, he led efforts to enhance the technical capabilities of LINX, improve service offerings, and strengthen security protocols. His leadership was instrumental in navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring that LINX remained at the forefront of the industry.
“We’re seeing increasing enterprise networks that have now started developing their own policies and needs in delivering their content directly onto the exchange point.”
Kurtis Lindqvist, next president & CEO of ICANN
Engagement in global internet governance
Beyond his executive roles, Lindqvist has been deeply involved in the broader internet governance community. He has been a member of the Internet Architecture Board (IAB), an influential body that oversees the technical development of the internet. The IAB’s work is critical in maintaining the standards and protocols that ensure the internet’s interoperability and stability.
Lindqvist has also been an active participant in the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), where he has chaired several working groups, including the Multi6-WG, shim6 WG, and v6ops WG. These groups focus on specific technical issues related to internet architecture and protocols, and Lindqvist’s leadership has been crucial in advancing solutions that enhance the internet’s functionality and resilience.
Additionally, Lindqvist has chaired the Swedish Operators Forum, a platform for discussion and collaboration among Swedish network operators. His involvement in the European Internet Exchange Association (Euro-IX), where he served as the chair of the board from 2003 to 2020, further highlights his commitment to fostering cooperation and knowledge sharing among internet exchange operators globally.
Vision and leadership at ICANN
Recently, on June 10, Lindqvist was appointed as President and CEO of ICANN, at the ICANN 80 meeting in Kigali, Rwanda.
ICANN plays a crucial role in coordinating the internet’s global DNS, a foundational element of the internet’s infrastructure. His leadership at ICANN is expected to focus on maintaining the security, stability, and interoperability of the DNS, while also addressing emerging challenges such as cybersecurity threats and the fragmentation of the internet.
“He is a well-respected, transformational leader who will propel ICANN into the future by evolving the organisation, building even stronger partnerships within our industry, and championing ICANN’s critical role in the multistakeholder model of internet governance on the global stage.”
Tripti Sinha, Chair of the ICANN Board of Directors
However, as Lindqvist prepares to take the helm at ICANN on December 5, 2024, he faces a range of challenges and opportunities. One of the primary challenges is maintaining the global interoperability of the Internet amidst growing pressures for national and regional control over Internet resources. The trend towards the “splinternet,” where different jurisdictions impose divergent regulations and standards, poses a threat to the open and unified nature of the Internet.
Additionally, cybersecurity remains a pressing concern. As cyber threats become more sophisticated and pervasive, ICANN’s role in ensuring the integrity and security of the DNS is more critical than ever. Lindqvist’s technical background and his experience in managing large-scale internet infrastructure will be invaluable in addressing these challenges.
Another key focus will be digital inclusion. Ensuring that the benefits of the internet reach all parts of the world, including underserved and remote areas, is a priority for ICANN. Lindqvist is expected to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote access and inclusivity, helping to bridge the digital divide.
Despite the tough challenges, Lindqvist, in his new role, aims to work closely with ICANN’s Board and executive team to navigate the complexities of global internet governance. His extensive experience in technical and policy aspects of the internet positions him well to lead ICANN in a time of rapid technological change and increasing geopolitical tensions. His commitment to a multistakeholder model of internet governance, which includes diverse voices from governments, businesses, and civil society, aligns with ICANN’s mission to foster a secure and stable internet.
Kurtis Lindqvist’s career is a testament to his deep expertise and enduring commitment to the development of the internet. From his early days pioneering internet access in the Åland Islands to his leadership roles at Netnod and LINX, Lindqvist has consistently demonstrated a vision for an open, secure, and inclusive internet.
“ICANN, as part of the ecosystem, is at the core of the success of this model, together with the technologies that enable it. I look forward to working with staff and the Board to deliver on ICANN’s mission.”
Kurtis Lindqvist, next president & CEO of ICANN
As he steps into his new role at ICANN, Lindqvist brings a wealth of experience and a strategic perspective that will be crucial in navigating the future of internet governance. His leadership will be instrumental in addressing the complex challenges facing the global internet community, ensuring that the internet continues to be a powerful tool for innovation, communication, and economic growth.
Lindqvist’s journey is not just a story of personal achievement but also a reflection of the broader evolution of the internet. His work has been integral to the development of key internet infrastructure and governance frameworks, shaping the digital landscape we navigate today. As he takes on the mantle of ICANN CEO, the global community looks forward to his continued contributions to the internet’s growth and stability, confident that his leadership will guide ICANN and the broader internet ecosystem into a new era of progress and resilience.
The correct answer is B. Executive MBA from the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne, Switzerland
