Robert Bole, Broadcasting Board of Governors

Geoffrey has two of the most important qualities I have encountered in leadership: an innovative, curious mind coupled with the humility of a confident and skill practitioner.

While I have regularly sought out his advice, and worked with him on a number of projects, it is my memory of him and team working at 2 am in my offices to demonstrate how a new product – HTML5 video (very early on) & subtitling could work. He led (by facilitating a number of smart people, but it was easy to see where the leadership emanated) a global team subtitling and then translating President’s State of the Union address into nine languages.

This story is quintessential Geoffrey. He came to town to talk about Mozilla’s HTML5 video project and over lunch with PBS NewsHour folks dreamed up a working demonstration. He was enthusiastic about the product, excited by the possibility of bringing something to life, but most importantly organized to get his team, and volunteers from around the globe to actually make something happen that had worth and value. He didn’t just talk about it, he made it happen.

And at 2 am, as leading engagement with Mozilla, he created a strong bond with key public media figures that accelerated them into more innovative digital efforts. His curiosity, passion and skill makes him someone I admire and will always want to partner with on any project.