AI watchdog Warden wins investor backing

An AI compliance startup is scaling up to meet global demand for trustworthy HR technology.

Warden AI has secured new investment to expand its AI auditing platform across North America and Europe. 

The funding round was led by the founders of Onfido and supported by early-stage venture capital firm Playfair.

Founded in 2023 by Jeffrey Pole and Eduard Schikurski, Warden helps vendors and employers audit hiring algorithms for fairness and compliance, using proprietary data and live dashboards. 

Its services are already used by major HR tech platforms including Greenhouse, Sense and Beamery.

Interest in AI accountability has surged following a high-profile US lawsuit, Mobley v. Workday, a landmark lawsuit alleging that a hiring algorithm resulted in discrimination.

The case has highlighted the legal and reputational risks of unchecked AI in recruitment.

Jeffrey, chief executive of Warden, which is based in London and has a US office in Austin, Texas, said: “The Workday case is a wake-up call and highlights why Warden AI exists, to bring independent auditing and oversight to AI development and use in HR.

“We built the platform to open up the black box of AI systems, which in turn builds trust in AI, increases adoption, gives organisations the evidence to deploy and defend AI systems, and protects the people they impact.” 

Warden’s expansion comes as HR leaders increasingly demand proof of responsible AI, with fairness benchmarks and regulatory compliance influencing procurement decisions across the industry.

Henrik Wetter Sanchez, general partner at Playfair, added: “AI is becoming central to high-volume talent decisions like hiring.

“But without proper oversight, it can entrench bias and expose companies to serious consequences. 

“Warden solves this by offering robust, independent auditing. 

“Jeff and Eduard bring the rare combination of regulatory depth and product execution needed to lead this category.”

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