About Luke Williams

Research Director

Luke Williams is a distinguished professional with a notable career in government consulting and academic research. Currently serving as the Research Director at Global True North, Luke has been instrumental in driving the firm's efforts in building a national understanding of the state of human services in order to develop efficient, human-centered, trauma-responsive, and outcome-focused systems. His role also extends to the affiliated group "The Center for Public Sector Ai," where he bridges the gap between government leaders and private sector developers, influencing the efforts to mitigate potential risk of and maximize the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence in government. This position reflects Luke's deep commitment to enhancing public sector efficiency and innovation.

Prior to his current role, Luke made significant contributions to the public sector as an Assistant to the Governor's Special Counsel on Native American Affairs in Oklahoma. From November 2020 to August 2021, he played a key role in complex policy negotiations and econometric research following the 'McGirt v. Oklahoma' Supreme Court decision. As a researcher at Public Strategies, a government consulting firm focusing on social benefit programs across the U.S., Luke’s responsibilities included collaborating with in-house Ph.D. researchers and teams from Mathematica to study social benefit programs in various states. Luke designed and conducted surveys and interviews with program beneficiaries, and he played a key role in creating and suggesting new delivery model innovations and interventions. These activities were centered around the analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data collected. His tenure at Public Strategies significantly contributed to his growing interest and expertise in American social benefit programs, and it equipped him with a valuable set of research skills that he now applies in his role at Global True North.

In the realm of academic research, Luke's tenure at Harvard University is particularly noteworthy. As a Research Assistant for the Global Party Survey from December 2021 to May 2022, he worked under Professor Pippa Norris, contributing to a critical research project that provided insights into the ideological values, policy positions, and rhetoric of political parties worldwide. Additionally, at Harvard Law School, he assisted in the research and development of the book 'What's Wrong with Mass Incarceration?' which examines the complexities of the U.S. prison system.

Luke's academic journey includes pursuits of undergraduate studies at Harvard University, focusing on Economics and History with a minor in English. He is currently expanding his academic horizon at the University of Oxford, pursuing a Master of Philosophy in Politics. His research focuses on the historical transformation of American conservatives' political approaches to wealth inequality, blending his interests in political theory, economics, and history.

Luke's career is marked by a commitment to public service and a passion for leveraging his expertise in economics and political theory to foster societal improvements. His blend of professional experience in government consulting, coupled with his academic prowess, positions him as a dynamic and impactful leader in the field of public policy and human services.