New York: Ajay Anand, Senior Vice President, Global Services, Strategy and Business Services, at Johnson & Johnson, has been named as the inaugural Executive in Residence at the Wharton AI & Analytics Initiative (WAIAI). Each year, select executives from top organisations will work alongside faculty and students to bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and real-world industry challenges.
Anand and Senior Director ERP, Digital & IT Strategy, The Hershey Company Achim Welter have been named the inaugural Executives in Residence.
As Executives in Residence, the leaders will advise the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton faculty, helping shape AI research to align with business needs; mentor students, and guide future AI innovators in WAIAI-sponsored projects like the Wharton AI & Analytics Accelerator.
Wharton statement said that Anand brings more than 26 years of “transformational leadership, driving strategic impact across consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and telecommunications. A dynamic force in business and technology, he has led global initiatives that redefine industries.” It said the breadth and depth of their “expertise make them uniquely positioned to shape WAIAI's future and mentor the next generation of AI pioneers.” Anand holds a Master's degree in Computer Science from Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, and an MBA from Drexel University in Philadelphia.
Beyond his corporate leadership, he is an influential voice in the data and digital transformation community, serving on the Global Editorial Board of CDO Magazine, where he shares insights on the future of healthcare through data and AI. Additionally, he serves as an independent board member for USA Table Tennis (USATT).
