Martha Clemons
@marthaclemons
AI ethics and governance advisor translating regulation into practical enterprise frameworks.
United StatesWhat I'm looking for
I’m a client-facing AI ethics and governance advisor who translates complex regulatory and ethical requirements into practical frameworks businesses can implement. I bring rare credibility from “first-hand experience at the SEC,” major financial institutions, and in-house at technology startups—so my guidance is trusted, not just credentialed.
Since 2025, I’ve operated an independent advisory practice (Principal — AI Ethics, Governance & Emerging Technology Advisory), advising early-stage emerging technology companies on legal risk management, business strategy, capital stack formation, and the evolving regulatory landscape. I architected two original, constitutionally complete AI governance frameworks—The World AI Commons (WAIC) and Global Data Commons Fund (GDCF)—and continually monitor standards and regimes including NIST AI RMF, ISO/IEC 42001, and the EU AI Act.
Previously, I served as General Counsel & Head of Business Development at a Series A startup, building governance documentation, compliance frameworks, and policy structures “from scratch” for technical and non-technical teams. Earlier, my regulatory and legal foundation includes “14+ years” as a regulatory attorney and in-house counsel, including SEC enforcement and investment management regulation work, plus senior counsel roles across financial services and fintech. I’m now focused on AI ethics and governance—completing AIGP certification (April 2026) and 30 hours of CLE in AI governance, data privacy, cybersecurity, and emerging technology law—supported by deep applied ethics training as an Ordained Interfaith Minister and Applied Ethics Practitioner.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Principal, AI Ethics
Big Love Ventures, LLC
Jan 2025 - Present (1 year 3 months)
Architected two original, constitutionally complete AI governance frameworks and translated complex AI regulatory requirements into actionable guidance for technical and executive audiences. Monitors evolving AI regulation (e.g., NIST AI RMF, ISO/IEC 42001, EU AI Act) and is completing AIGP certification and CLE focused on AI governance and privacy.
Interfaith Minister & Ethics
Independent Practice
Jan 2002 - Present (24 years 3 months)
Provides independent ethical formation and facilitation grounded in multiple ethical traditions, including virtue ethics, deontological frameworks, care ethics, and non-Western moral philosophy. Brings mediation training and certification as a yoga teacher to guide cross-disciplinary groups through complex, values-laden discussions.
General Counsel & Biz Dev
FyberX (Erthe.eco)
Jan 2023 - Jan 2025 (2 years)
Served as trusted advisor to the CEO and leadership team, providing risk-calibrated ethical and legal guidance across product development, operations, and business strategy for a Series A startup. Built governance documentation and compliance frameworks, and coordinated with external counsel and stakeholders to deliver clear, actionable findings for leadership.
Co-Founder & Board Chair
Southeast Hemp Association
Jan 2016 - Jan 2022 (6 years)
Built and led a multi-state governance organization, developing governance board structures and conducting policy audits to support members navigating ambiguous regulated requirements. Served as primary regulatory and ethics interface with USDA, state/federal regulatory agencies, and legislative representatives, translating complex requirements into actionable guidance.
SEC Branch Chief & Counsel
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
Jan 1991 - Jan 1998 (7 years)
Investigated potential violations of U.S. securities laws and managed enforcement attorneys while litigating in federal and administrative courts. Advised the head of Investment Management Regulation and supported regulatory examinations of regulated entities.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Pepperdine University
Juris Doctor, Law
Earned a Juris Doctor (JD) from Pepperdine University.
Illinois Institute of Technology - Stuart School of Business
Master of Science, Financial Markets and Trading
Earned an M.S. in Financial Markets and Trading from the IIT Stuart School of Business.
University of Arizona
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Management Information Systems (MIS) & Entrepreneurship
Earned a B.S.B.A. with a focus on MIS and Entrepreneurship from the University of Arizona.
Availability
Location
United StatesAuthorized to work in
Job categories
Skills
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