Governance-Grade AI: Protecting Your Organization When Directors Are Already Using Consumer AI Tools

Kira Ciccarelli is the Lead Researcher of the Diligent Institute, the modern governance think tank and global research arm of Diligent Corporation. In her role, Kira researches and produces high-level modern governance reports, blog articles and podcasts designed to inform director decision-making and highlight best practices. Before joining Diligent, Kira worked in a variety of data-driven research roles, including analyzing global aid funds to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and compiling a meta-analysis of political experimental findings for the Analyst Institute. She holds a BA in Public Policy from the College of William & Mary.

Kayla Schembri is Head of Policy at The Chartered Governance Institute UK and Ireland. Based in London, she is responsible for delivering thought leadership, lobbying campaigns and professional guidance on leading governance practice, and elevating the governance profession with members, regulators, policymakers, employers and other stakeholders by promoting strong governance as a strategic enabler for organisational success and competitive advantage. Kayla, who joined the Institute in 2025, is an enthusiastic governance professional having held multiple seats at the boardroom table, including company secretarial, non-executive director and chairperson appointments. She is a fierce advocate for cognitive diversity in leadership, with a steadfast commitment to lifelong learning and a fascination with the art of decision-making. In 2024, Kayla’s penchant for tackling technology-governance issues was calcified in her coursework contribution to the International Board Directors Competency Designation (IBDC.D) in New York entitled “Is Your Board Your Biggest Cyber Security Threat?”. Her current work at the Institute includes championing for AI moderation through good governance and nuanced, informed decision-making.