Ukraine Foundation
Inspiring Change, Driving Impact
William Dixon serves as Ukraine Foundation’s Senior Fellow for Technology and Cybersecurity Affairs.
William Dixon is an Associate Fellow of the Royal United Service Institute specializing in cyber and international security issues.
William Dixon started his career in the UK Intelligence Community. He was an operational and strategic lead for a range of national security and cyber programs for Her Majesty’s Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ). This included major experience working on a number of high-profile international cybercrime investigations.
After leaving Government he was the Head of Future Networks and Technology at the World Economic Forum. He was also an executive at Barclays where he was the Global Head of Intelligence.
He is the author and contributor to a number of publications and holds a Master’s degree from King’s College London’s War Studies Department in Intelligence and International Security.
Ukraine Foundation’s Senior Fellow for Technology and Cybersecurity, William Dixon, Published in the Latest Edition of the Peer-Reviewed Ukrainian Policymaker Journal.
His article “Ukraine as the Cyber Spanish Civil War” offers an original contribution by applying Thomas Rid’s triad of cyber functions -espionage, sabotage, and subversion- to assess the evolving nature of cyber warfare in Ukraine, showing how each has transitioned from strategic theory to tactical implementation in an ongoing, high-stakes conflict.
Drawing parallels to the Spanish Civil War’s role as a proving ground for innovation, the article positions the Russo-Ukrainian war as a live-fire lab for cyber integration, where cyber capabilities only reach strategic effect when synchronized with kinetic operations -much like how tanks and aircraft in the 1930s only revolutionized warfare when used in coordination. Ultimately, the article argues that Ukraine’s success stems less from technical superiority and more from organizational agility, public-private fusion, and horizontal integration, marking a transformative model of cyber conflict with lessons far beyond the battlefield.
In the coming months, Ukraine Foundation‘s research will continue exploring how cyber operations evolve into a key element of combined arms tactics.
Geneva and Kyiv: On June 12, the Professional Government Association of Ukraine and Ukraine Foundation successfully launched their joint Espresso Speaker Series with a presentation by William Dixon, who shared his latest research findings titled “Ukraine as the Cyber Spanish War.”
William Dixon serves as Ukraine Foundation’s Senior Fellow for Technology and Cybersecurity Affairs, and as a Senior Associate Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) -the world’s oldest defense and security think tank- where he specializes in cyber and international security issues.
He presented insights from his soon-to-be-published research in Ukrainian Policymaker, offering a compelling analysis of Ukraine’s role in the evolving global cyber landscape.
This was a timely conversation, as Ukraine’s advancements in cyber capabilities—including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), Counter-Electronic Warfare (CEW), and Artificial Intelligence (AI)—coupled with strategic planning and strict operational security, have recently drawn the attention of global policymakers and defense strategists.
The discussion was moderated by Dr. Anna Mysyshyn, a global expert in AI ethics, cybersecurity, and digital governance, and founder of the Institute of Innovative Governance. Her thoughtful guidance sparked a lively exchange with our engaged audience.
About William Dixon
William Dixon began his career in the UK Intelligence Community, serving as an operational and strategic lead for various national security and cyber programs within Her Majesty’s Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ). After leaving government service, he held the role of Head of Future Networks and Technology at the World Economic Forum. He also served as Global Head of Intelligence at Barclays. He is a published author and contributor to numerous publications and holds a Master’s degree in Intelligence and International Security from the War Studies Department at King’s College London.
About Dr. Anna Mysyshyn
Dr. Mysyshyn’s expertise has been sought by leading international institutions including the United Nations, UNDP, FCDO, U.S. Department of State, and the German Marshall Fund. She has played a pivotal role in shaping global regulatory frameworks and cybersecurity strategies. A recognized thought leader and policy advisor, Dr. Mysyshyn has lectured in over 20 countries. She holds a PhD in Law and three LL.M. degrees from prestigious Russell Group universities.
Looking Ahead
Our next Espresso Conversation will feature Dr. Mariya Heletiy, the Ukraine Foundation’s Non-Resident Senior Fellow for Peace Processes and Conflict Resolution, who will discuss: “Lessons Learned from the Balkans and Nagorno-Karabakh Conflicts for the Future of Ukraine.”
Check out William Dixon’s latest publications and media appearances
William Dixon in Today with Nic Roberston, BBC Radio 4, April 25, 2024 (starts at 17.19)
FAQs
What is the focus of Ukraine Foundation’s work?
Ukraine Foundation is an independent, mission-driven research and impact organization dedicated to advancing peace, resilience, and innovation in Ukraine. Our work combines rigorous policy research with practical initiatives that strengthen Ukraine’s international partnerships, support innovation and technology, and promote cultural resilience amid the ongoing war.
How does the Foundation turn research into impact?
We believe research should lead to real-world change. Our policy programs —Ukraine in Europe, China in Ukraine, and Ukraine in the Global South— produce insights that shape international dialogue and policy. At the same time, our impact initiatives foster cooperation between governments, businesses, academia, and civil society, ensuring that ideas translate into action for Ukraine’s security, prosperity, and influence.
How can individuals and organizations engage with the Foundation?
Engagement is central to our mission. Partners, experts, and supporters can collaborate through joint research projects, public events, and strategic initiatives in innovation and culture. We also welcome contributions to our programs that amplify Ukraine’s voice globally and strengthen its resilience at home.
How can I support Ukraine Foundation?
You can support our mission by contributing financially, partnering on research or impact projects, or amplifying our work through your professional networks. Every contribution -whether funding, expertise, or visibility- helps us strengthen Ukraine’s resilience and global partnerships.
Does Ukraine Foundation accept volunteers or research fellows?
Yes. We welcome dedicated professionals, researchers, and students who want to contribute to our policy and impact agenda. Opportunities range from short-term projects and fellowships to longer-term engagement with our programs and initiatives.
How can organizations collaborate with the Foundation?
We actively partner with think tanks, universities, governments, businesses, and NGOs to co-develop research, host events, and implement projects that drive meaningful change. Organizations interested in collaboration can reach out to us directly to explore tailored partnerships.
