Karthik Krishnamurthy

Karthik Krishnamurthy is a respected global leader in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and business strategy. As Chief Executive Officer of Ascendion, he brings together decades of experience in technology, analytics, and innovation. Known for his forward-thinking approach, Karthik helps businesses understand how AI can drive meaningful, measurable growth. His expertise lies in building systems that merge human creativity with intelligent automation, giving companies the confidence to embrace an AI-first future.

Karthik’s career spans over 18 years of leadership across some of the world’s largest technology firms. Before founding Ascendion, he spent nearly two decades at Cognizant, where he served as Senior Vice President and Global Business Head of Analytics and Information Management. During his tenure, he led global teams responsible for scaling digital operations, steering the organisation’s shift toward AI-enabled products, analytics platforms, and data-driven strategy. Karthik later became SVP and Global Head of Markets at Cognizant Digital Business, where he championed the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things to redefine enterprise performance.

In 2022, Karthik launched Ascendion, an AI-first software engineering company designed to help Global 2000 clients harness the power of generative technology. Under his leadership, Ascendion has grown rapidly, earning industry recognition as a leader in applied AI and digital engineering. The company combines software design, data science, and workforce transformation to help clients create value and reduce risk in complex digital environments. Karthik also serves as Group CEO of Collabera Holdings, where he oversees innovation across human capital and technology platforms. His global experience and ability to connect technological trends with business goals have established him as a trusted voice among executives and investors.

Karthik is an active member of the Forbes Technology Council, The Wall Street Journal CEO Council, and the Economic Club of New York. His leadership has helped Ascendion secure accolades including AI Service Provider of the Year. As a keynote speaker, Karthik brings clarity to complex ideas, using real-world examples from industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. His sessions inspire organisations to act with purpose, showing how AI can improve operations, create new opportunities, and elevate human potential. Karthik’s clear, engaging style and deep practical knowledge make him a compelling voice in the global conversation on the future of artificial intelligence.