Julie Guirado
Julie Guirado was executive director of Center for Humane Technology, a nonprofit that works to reduce the harmful effects of social media and artificial intelligence;
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Who She Is
Julie Guirado is the Executive Director of Center for Humane Technology (CHT). She took over as chief operating officer in 2023 before being promoted to lead the whole organization. In her role, she sets the group's long-term goals and helps expand its work in research, media, and policy. Before joining CHT, she built careers in finance and operations for nonprofits, startups, and other companies. She studied business at ESSEC, a European management school.
What the Organization Does Now
Center for Humane Technology is best known for making the documentary The Social Dilemma, which showed how social media can harm mental health and democracy. The nonprofit also runs a podcast and an online course to help people understand persuasive technology—products designed to grab and keep your attention.
In October 2026, CHT announced it was laying off about half of its staff. The organization is shutting down its policy and legal teams to focus more on projects led by its founders, especially Tristan Harris, one of the co-creators of The Social Dilemma. The move has drawn mixed reactions from former employees, who feel the nonprofit is turning away from direct advocacy work.
Why It Matters
Tech platforms shape how billions of people spend their time and share information. A group like CHT can push for safer design and smarter regulations, but it needs funding, staff, and clear focus. Guirado now leads an organization that is shrinking its traditional programs to concentrate on founder-driven work—a choice that could strengthen some efforts while leaving others behind. Her job is to guide CHT through this shift while keeping its mission alive.
FAQ
What is the Center for Humane Technology? It is a nonprofit that studies and speaks out against the negative effects of social media and AI. It made the film The Social Dilemma and offers free courses to help people protect their attention online.
Who is Julie Guirado and what does she do at CHT? She is the Executive Director. She was previously the chief operating officer and now leads the organization's strategy, fundraising, and overall direction.
Why is CHT laying off staff? Leaders say they want to focus on what its founders do best instead of running large policy and legal teams. Some former workers disagree with the choice.
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