Walter Pasquarelli Profile Picture

Keynote SpeakerWalter Pasquarelli

Internationally Recognised Advisor, Speaker and Researcher on AI Strategy, The Economist Presenter of "The Data Dividend", who worked with Google, Microsoft, Coca-Cola & Meta

Walter Pasquarelli is an internationally recognised advisor, speaker, expert on AI strategy and synthetic reality. Recognised as one of the top 16 global speakers on AI, Walter’s sessions empower global leaders and C-suite executives with a forward-thinking perspective geared towards success in the age of artificial intelligence. Walter believes leading... Read more

Biography

Walter Pasquarelli is an internationally recognised advisor, speaker, expert on AI strategy and synthetic reality. Recognised as one of the top 16 global speakers on AI, Walter’s sessions empower global leaders and C-suite executives with a forward-thinking perspective geared towards success in the age of artificial intelligence.

Walter believes leading in the AI era requires more than adopting technology, but it demands the right mindset and a clear vision. He examines what it means to be AI-ready, and how this technology redefines the economy, creativity, and the very fabric of society.

A champion for grounding conversations on AI in its practical implications – beyond the hype – Walter led AI thought leadership and advisory programmes at The Economist group, shaping policy and business perception of emerging technologies. He is a member of the OECD’s AI expert network and has been advising the Organisation on the governance of AI. Walter is also a research affiliate at the Bennett School for Public Policy at the University of Cambridge, where he supports the School’s work on AI policy and synthetic media.

His works were widely published and received mentions by the BBC, The Economist, The Financial Times, POLITICO, the European Parliament, the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, the UAE Minister of State for AI among others.

Walter specializes in strategic planning and has a history of anticipating and engaging with crucial shifts in the responsible use of AI and macroeconomic tech trends. He led the development of the first globally focused “AI Index”, benchmarking countries’ readiness to uptake emerging technologies across key industries and markets.

Widely known as a writer, speaker and advisor, Walter has served as an advisor to Intel, Google, Meta, Microsoft, Coca-Cola as well as presidencies and government departments in the UK, the US, Canada, the European Commission, the Gulf and Latin America, and he is a Member of the Strategic AI Advisory Board of the Welsh Government. His expertise on AI was requested by a European presidential candidate targeted by a deepfake during an electoral campaign; the first political deepfake attack of its kind at that time in the region.

An experienced moderator and speaker he presented The Economist’s Data Dividend series, The World Government Summit, and moderated the World Economic Forum, involving ministers and C-suite executives from Fortune 100 companies and government leaders.

Walter speaks five languages and is based in London.

“It was a pleasure to work with Walter. He has been incredibly collaborative, accessible and responsive. He explained complicated areas of AI, its relevance for governments and businesses with ease, which helped us make our conversations even more engaging for a very international audience with varied amounts of experience with AI." Coca-Cola, Global director
"Walter did a fantastic job in simplifying both the opportunities and challenges ahead for public sector and industry leaders as they work to rebuild their country's competitiveness in the new era of AI. His approach, using images and real stories, is a very powerful way to provide a full perspective and deeply engage public sector leaders” Intel, Global Director
"In a field often clouded by jargon, Walter offers a clear and incisive voice on AI and policy issues. He excels both as a moderator and speaker, and greatly helped uplevel our team’s understanding of key issues.”
 Google, Chief of Staff
“Walter did an outstanding job as the Chair of the World Summit AI. His deep expertise, and ability to engage the audience made the summit a resounding Success" World Summit AI, Founder
“Walter’s insights made AI clear and actionable for our government work."
 Office of the Presidency of the Republic Of Colombia


“Walter has a unique talent for making even the most complex AI concepts feel accessible and intuitive.” Prime Minister’s Office of the Republic of Serbia

“Walter’s ability to blend deep topic knowledge with engagement is truly impressive.” The Economist

Popular Talks by Walter Pasquarelli

  • The Age of AI: The Generative Revolution and Its Impact on Humanity

    In this session, Walter Pasquarelli explores the story of the Generative AI revolution and its impact on humanity. Attendees will uncover how this groundbreaking technology is reshaping the global economy, redefining creativity, and influencing the very fabric of society. Walter will illuminate the current advancements, future possibilities, and ethical considerations...

  • Global AI Index: Insights from the Frontlines of Policy and Investment

    Join Walter Pasquarelli for a critical session focused on mapping the global landscape of AI investments, regulations, and policies. Drawing on his experience in developing the world’s first AI Index, his work with the OECD and advising world leaders, Walter will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of how these...

  • The C-Suite’s Guide to AI Readiness in Your Industry

    In this targeted talk, Walter Pasquarelli presents an industry-specific analysis of AI opportunities and challenges. Drawing from his extensive advisory experience across various sectors, he will outline tailored strategies for adoption and integration, focusing on real-world applications that can elevate organizational performance. This session aims to equip attendees with the...

  • Synthetic Reality: A Revolution That Will Transform What We See, Believe, and Feel

    Join Walter Pasquarelli as he explores the concept of Synthetic Reality, a term he coined in 2019 long before the advent of generative technologies. With 90% of content online forecasted to be AI-generated, this session critically examines how synthetic media is reshaping our understanding of truth and authenticity in an...