Walter Pasquarelli

Walter Pasquarelli is widely recognised as a leading voice in artificial intelligence, known for combining rigorous policy expertise with practical experience across government, industry and academia. As the creator of the world’s first AI Index and a trusted advisor to global institutions, he brings a rare ability to translate technical developments into clear insights about their societal, economic and political implications. Today, he is an Affiliated Researcher at the University of Cambridge and a member of the Welsh Government’s Strategic AI Advisory Board, roles that reflect his standing as one of the most informed and articulate commentators on the future of AI.

Walter began his career in social impact as Co-Founder and Chairman of Stichting Lend A Hand, an NGO supporting victims of violence, poverty and discrimination. His transition into AI came when he was recruited as the Policy Lead for AI and Data at Oxford Insights, where he helped governments understand the opportunities and risks surrounding emerging technologies. He later lectured at Tecnológico de Monterrey on digital commerce in the age of AI and served as a Consultant at the Open Data Institute, where he contributed to the establishment of the Data Trust Advisory Board. His research background also includes work as an AI Policy Fellow at the University of Bath, examining the social and political effects of brain-computer interfaces.

Over the course of his career, Walter has advised organisations worth over $1 billion combined and has held high-profile positions, including Manager of AI and Society at The Economist. There, he oversaw a portfolio exceeding two million dollars and presented the publication’s Data Dividend series. His work with leading bodies such as the OECD-OCDE, One AI Group of Experts and Intel Corporation has further cemented his authority in the field. His analysis has been featured in Forbes and POLITICO and cited by public figures including the Mayor of London and the UAE Minister of State for AI. His contribution to public understanding of artificial intelligence was recognised when he received the Prospect Public Policy Award from the Bennett Institute at the University of Cambridge.

Walter is an accomplished speaker with more than two hundred appearances at major international events, including the World Economic Forum, CogX and World Summit AI. Audiences value his ability to demystify complex technological topics while grounding them in real-world policy experience. His blend of academic insight, industry knowledge and global advisory work makes him an exceptional communicator who helps organisations understand not only where AI is heading but what it means for them.

In September 2023, we sat down virtually with Walter Pasquarelli and discussed how AI is transforming the future and how businesses can best look to implement it. Watch our interview with Walter Pasquarelli here.