TheBridge profile: Joseph Brandifino
Name: Joseph Brandifino
Current city: Los Angeles, CA
Current job: Manager, Risk & Intelligence at Netflix
Past job: Central Intelligence Agency, National Clandestine Service, Operations Officer
Q. Favorite spot for a coffee meeting? Coffee Commissary, Los Angeles
Q. Describe how a skill you learned in a previous job helped you in your current job. While earning a Master in Public Policy at Harvard University, I volunteered for the Facebook and Google supported Defending Digital Democracy Project at Harvard’s Belfer Center. We provided advisory services and security guidance to state and federal election authorities. Bridging gaps between key internal and external stakeholders and finding common ground was critical to success; lessons I continue to apply. Find common ground.
Q. Job advice in three words? Never give up.
Q. How are you (or your company, org, nonprofit) currently bridging the gap between innovation and regulation? On a personal level, I find that focusing on commonalities between two communities seemingly in opposition is the most effective way to bridge a divide. Understanding that the policy and tech worlds share common goals, identifying those common goals, and serving as the advocate for both earns trust and brings different parties to the table.
Q. What can innovators learn from policymakers? Focus on long-term impact.
Q. What can policymakers learn from innovators? Moving fast is commonly associated with innovation in the tech space. It is possible for policy to move fast as well without sacrificing diligence and thoughtfulness.
Q. Favorite book/podcast/long-form article you recommend? Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend is a hilarious way to pass the time, and Office Ladies is the best way to relive all of my favorite episodes of The Office.
Q. If you had to live in another city, which would it be? Milan, Italy
Q. Last time you were completely unplugged? A recent vacation to Miami. It is important to disconnect every so often and enjoy time with family.
Q. Best advice you’ve received? Be your own career advocate.
Q. Morning routine? Starting a day without coffee is an impossible task, so my morning routine involves a much needed cup of coffee while checking emails.
Q. How do you unwind after work? After work I find a long run to be the best way to relax.
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