Burda Adds AI Expertise to Board

by Priyanka Patel






Meredith Whittaker, Burda, Signal, AI, board of directors”>

BERLIN,July 3,2025

signal’s Leader Takes on New Role

Meredith Whittaker,Signal’s president,becomes Burda’s newest board member.

  • Meredith Whittaker appointed to burda board of directors.
  • Whittaker brings technology adn AI expertise.
  • Burda emphasizes commitment to innovation.

The big question: who is the new board member at Burda? Meredith Whittaker, president of Signal, is the new addition, bringing a wealth of experience in technology and AI to the media company.

The Burda family has tapped Meredith Whittaker, the head of Signal, to join its board of directors. It’s a move signaling a deeper dive into technology and, specifically, fair technologies in the AI age. The top strategic control committee already includes publisher Hubert Burda, Elisabeth Burda Furtwängler, Jacob Burda, Olaf Koch (Chairman), Andreas Rittstieg, and Ulrike Handel.

Did you know? Whittaker was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in AI in both 2023 and 2024.

A Background in Tech

Whittaker isn’t new to the tech scene. She was previously a Mernoo research professor and faculty director, plus a co-founder of the AI ​​Now Institute at New York University (NYU), where she continues as a chief consultant. She also advised Lina Khan, former chair of the US Federal Trade Commission, on AI issues. Signal itself was recognized as one of the 100 most influential companies in 2025. Her accolades include the Helmut Schmidt Court Prize 2024 and the Richard von weizsäcker scholarship. Her path began at google, where she launched the Open Research Group and co-founded M-Lab, an open data source on Internet performance.

Explore: Learn more about the AI Now Institute and its research on the social implications of artificial intelligence. Visit AI Now Institute

Whittaker’s Viewpoint

“burda is known in the technology industry,be it through the DLD conference in Munich or Hubert Burda’s visionary knowledge in the early 1990s,the potential for the media industry-long before such a transparent was widespread,” Whittaker stated.”It is indeed a great honor to take on the new role in the board of directors and to support Burda in this exciting and crucial time.”

A “Moral Compass” on Board

Jacob Burda, a partner and board member, emphasized Whittaker’s character: “Meredith is a unique personality whose career is characterized by a non-neglecting focus on the right. Your desire to create a new tech ecosystem wiht new incentive systems.We are very happy that it is an integral part of our new team.”

Key Quote: “Your calling to the Board of Directors is in line with our strategic vision of combining modern technologies and media, letting innovative ideas thrive and thereby maintaining ethical standards,” said Elisabeth Burda Furtwängler.

Elisabeth Burda Furtwängler also expressed her admiration for Whittaker’s technological expertise and strong moral compass. “Your calling to the Board of Directors is in line with our strategic vision of combining modern technologies and media, letting innovative ideas thrive and thereby maintaining ethical standards,” she said.

The Future of Media adn AI: A Deeper Dive

Meredith Whittaker’s appointment to the Burda board is more than just a personnel change; it’s a strategic move reflecting the evolving landscape where technology and media converge.

But what does this mean in practice? How will Whittaker’s expertise shape Burda’s approach to artificial intelligence, and what are the broader implications for the media industry? The answer lies in understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, and how Burda, under Whittaker’s guidance, aims to navigate them.

The AI-Powered Media Landscape

The media industry is undergoing a transformation. AI is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s a present-day reality, impacting content creation, distribution, and consumption. From automated news generation to personalized content recommendations, AI is fundamentally altering how we experience media.

  • Personalized Content: AI algorithms enhance user experience and increase engagement.
  • Automated Content Creation: AI tools assist in writing, editing, and even generating initial drafts for news stories and articles.
  • Data analysis and Insights: AI helps media companies analyze data, understand audience behavior, and gain valuable insights.
  • Efficiency and Cost Reduction: Automating tasks is expected to cut operational costs and improve efficiency overall.

Ethical Considerations and New Roles

With great technological advancements come ethical responsibilities. Concerns about bias in algorithms, the spread of misinformation, and the impact on human jobs have come to the fore. Whittaker’s focus on ethical technology and her experience with the AI Now Institute provide valuable guidance.

How can media companies balance innovation and ethical responsibility? It’s critical to implement strict guidelines and a focus on minimizing potential harm.

Why is ethical AI tech essential? Consider that media companies need trusted sources to maintain and grow a subscriber base.

Whittaker’s role in Burda will likely involve:

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