Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work, lead and do business. But as AI continues to evolve, many organizations are facing the same question: How do we move beyond the hype and turn this technology into a real advantage?
That's where the right AI keynote speaker can make a difference.
The best artificial intelligence keynote speakers don't just explain emerging technologies. They help audiences understand what AI means for their industry, where the greatest opportunities lie and how to prepare for the changes ahead.
Whether you're planning a corporate conference, leadership summit, association meeting or industry event, an AI expert can help your audience approach the future with greater clarity and confidence.
At GDA Speakers, we've connected organizations with exceptional speakers since 1999. Here are 10 AI keynote speakers worth considering for your next event, each bringing a different perspective on one of today's most important business topics.
1. Ankit Fadia
AI offers enormous potential, but knowing where and how to use it is what creates real business value. Ankit Fadia helps organizations connect those dots.
A Partner at McKinsey & Company and artificial intelligence expert, Fadia works with senior executives to identify opportunities for advanced analytics and generative AI across business operations.
His experience guiding complex AI transformations gives him a firsthand understanding of the opportunities and obstacles organizations encounter when implementing new technologies.
Through presentations such as GenAI-fy Your Organization and GenAI-fy Your Life, Fadia breaks down the capabilities of generative AI and explores practical applications that can improve productivity, decision-making and business performance.
He also addresses the risks and considerations involved in adoption, helping audiences think strategically about where AI can deliver meaningful results.
For organizations seeking practical insights on business growth, AI implementation and digital transformation, Fadia brings real-world consulting experience and actionable takeaways.
The GDA Perspective: With 70 bookings through GDA, Ankit has a proven track record of delivering insights that resonate with audiences. As one GDA client shared, “Ankit was really excellent. His level of expertise is apparent in the way he speaks and delivers information. We had fantastic feedback on his session from our attendees.”
2. Shawn Kanungo
What if the biggest risk of AI isn't falling behind on technology, but failing to rethink how your organization operates? Shawn Kanungo challenges audiences to think bigger.
A globally recognized innovation strategist and bestselling author of The Bold Ones, Kanungo spent 12 years at Deloitte helping organizations navigate disruption and emerging technologies.
His work explores how generative AI, automation and changing customer expectations are creating opportunities for organizations willing to challenge conventional thinking.
Through keynotes such as Innovation in a World of AI and Friction by Design: Building Trust in the Age of AI, Kanungo demonstrates why successful AI adoption requires more than implementing new tools. It demands creativity, experimentation and the courage to question established business models.
He also challenges the assumption that every interaction should become faster and more automated, showing how intentional human connection can become a competitive advantage in an increasingly digital world.
For organizations focused on innovation and creativity, navigating change and business transformation, Kanungo brings an energetic, thought-provoking perspective on the future of AI.
3. Dan Chuparkoff
AI doesn't have to be overwhelming. Dan Chuparkoff makes complex technology understandable, practical and relevant to the work people do every day.
A former technology leader at Google with experience at McKinsey and Atlassian, Chuparkoff has spent decades helping teams adapt to technological change.
His approach focuses on making artificial intelligence accessible to audiences at every level, whether they're already experimenting with AI or still figuring out where to begin.
Rather than presenting AI as a distant technological revolution, Chuparkoff shows how organizations can use it to improve decision-making, simplify processes, strengthen creativity and support human expertise.
His presentations emphasize the relationship between technology and people, encouraging teams to recognize where AI can enhance their capabilities rather than simply replace existing tasks.
For audiences looking to move beyond AI buzzwords and identify practical opportunities for innovation and performance, Chuparkoff delivers a clear, approachable introduction to what's possible.
4. Jamie Metzl
Artificial intelligence isn't transforming the world in isolation. Jamie Metzl explores what happens when AI converges with biotechnology, genetics and other breakthroughs reshaping human potential.
A bestselling author, technology expert and global affairs specialist, Metzl approaches the future as a humanist, examining how emerging technologies will transform not just industries and organizations, but the human experience itself.
His work explores how advances in AI and biotechnology are creating new possibilities for healthcare, business, human longevity and the way we live and work.
As the author of Superconvergence and Hacking Darwin, Metzl brings a big-picture perspective to technological disruption, helping audiences understand how multiple innovations can accelerate and amplify one another.
His presentations challenge leaders to consider not only what new technologies can accomplish, but also where their industries, organizations and employees fit into this rapidly changing landscape.
For organizations interested in healthcare innovation, emerging technologies and long-term business strategy, Metzl connects complex developments to the human decisions that will shape our future.
The GDA Perspective: A longtime GDA favorite with 21 bookings, Jamie brings a compelling human-centered perspective to conversations about emerging technology. His ability to connect the bigger picture of AI and scientific innovation to the people and organizations navigating these changes makes his message relevant across industries.
5. Zack Kass
What happens when artificial intelligence becomes part of nearly every aspect of business? Zack Kass helps organizations look beyond the technology itself and rethink what's possible.
As the former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI, Kass helped bring groundbreaking AI technology into real-world business applications. Today, he advises organizations and leaders on navigating AI adoption, understanding emerging opportunities and preparing for a future shaped by increasingly capable technology.
His experience working with major organizations gives him a practical perspective on the challenges leaders face when moving from AI experimentation to meaningful transformation.
Rather than focusing solely on tools and automation, Kass explores how AI is changing the nature of work, where people create value and what organizations must do to remain competitive.
For audiences focused on artificial intelligence, leadership and organizational transformation, Kass offers a forward-looking perspective grounded in firsthand experience at the forefront of AI adoption.
The GDA Perspective: After seeing Zack speak firsthand, a GDA teammate described him as sharp, funny and genuinely optimistic. His ability to incorporate the human side of AI makes complex ideas relatable while challenging audiences to think differently about the future. Our teammate also noted that his combination of opening remarks and a fireside chat creates a particularly engaging, thought-provoking experience, especially when paired with a strong moderator.
6. John Sanei
What if preparing for the AI era requires changing the way we think, not just the technology we use? John Sanei challenges audiences to rethink how they approach the future.
An internationally recognized futurist, author and business strategist, Sanei explores the relationship between artificial intelligence, human behavior and the changing demands of leadership.
Drawing from futures studies, neuroscience and business strategy, he helps organizations understand how AI is reshaping industries, creating new opportunities and challenging traditional approaches to work.
His presentations encourage leaders to look beyond using AI to improve existing processes and consider how it can create entirely new sources of value.
Through frameworks focused on strategic thinking, adaptability and human-AI collaboration, Sanei helps audiences identify the capabilities they will need as technology continues to evolve.
For organizations navigating change and uncertainty, Sanei offers a thought-provoking perspective on building the mindset and skills needed to thrive in an AI-powered future.
The GDA Perspective: With 26 bookings through GDA, John has been a frequently selected speaker for organizations seeking fresh perspectives on change, innovation and preparing for the future.
7. Erica Dhawan
As AI makes it easier to communicate, create and collaborate, Erica Dhawan asks an important question: How do we preserve the human connections that make teams successful?
An internationally recognized expert on teamwork, communication and innovation, Dhawan is the bestselling author of Digital Body Language and Get Big Things Done.
Her work examines how organizations can build trust, strengthen collaboration and communicate effectively in increasingly digital environments.
As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into everyday work, Dhawan explores the importance of critical thinking, authentic communication and the relationships that technology alone cannot replace.
Her presentations give audiences practical strategies for breaking down silos, improving teamwork and ensuring that new technologies strengthen rather than weaken human connection.
For organizations focused on communication, teamwork and collaboration and leadership in the age of AI, Dhawan brings a people-centered perspective to technological change.
The GDA Perspective: GDA has booked Erica 16 times, and our team has experienced firsthand how powerfully she connects with an audience. As one teammate put it, “She NAILED it. She owns the stage...actually she owns the ROOM!” What stood out most was her ability to understand the audience and customize her examples accordingly, making her presentation especially engaging and relevant.
8. Rachel Wilson
As artificial intelligence creates new opportunities, it's also changing the risks organizations must prepare for. Rachel Wilson helps audiences understand the evolving cybersecurity landscape.
A former senior executive at the National Security Agency and cybersecurity leader at Morgan Stanley, Wilson brings decades of experience protecting sensitive information and navigating complex security threats.
During her career at the NSA, she held senior leadership positions in counterterrorism and cyber operations, including work supporting security efforts surrounding the 2012 London Olympics.
Today, she draws from her experience in national security and financial services to help organizations understand the threats facing businesses, employees and customers.
Her presentations address the evolving relationship between technology, cybersecurity and human behavior, including the risks and responsibilities that accompany the growing use of AI.
For organizations focused on cybersecurity, risk management and digital transformation, Wilson offers a perspective grounded in high-stakes, real-world experience.
The GDA Perspective: With 22 bookings through GDA, Rachel has an established history of bringing her cybersecurity and national security expertise to client audiences.
9. Sol Rashidi
What does it actually take to make AI work inside an organization? Sol Rashidi brings the experience of someone who has spent years turning ambitious AI strategies into real-world results.
Recognized as the world's first enterprise Chief AI Officer, Rashidi is a former Fortune 100 executive, Amazon technology leader and artificial intelligence pioneer who played a pivotal role in developing and launching IBM Watson.
With experience leading more than 200 AI deployments, she understands the difference between an exciting AI demonstration and a successful implementation that creates measurable business value.
As the author of Your AI Survival Guide, Rashidi shares practical lessons from the challenges of AI adoption, helping leaders identify common mistakes, prepare their organizations and make more informed technology decisions.
Her presentations also explore how businesses can integrate AI into the workforce without losing the critical thinking, creativity and human judgment that drive long-term success. Through her Human Amplification Index framework, she challenges organizations to measure how effectively AI strengthens both business performance and employees' capabilities.
For organizations focused on artificial intelligence, the future of work and business transformation, Rashidi delivers a practitioner-focused perspective on making AI investments count.
The GDA Perspective: GDA has booked Sol five times, connecting our clients with a speaker who brings firsthand experience implementing AI at scale and translating emerging technology into business applications.
10. Theresa Payton
In an AI-powered world, innovation and security must go hand in hand. Theresa Payton helps organizations understand how to embrace new technologies without overlooking the risks.
The first female Chief Information Officer of the White House, Payton is a cybersecurity expert, technology strategist and recognized voice on privacy and digital security.
Her career includes experience helping organizations protect information, respond to emerging threats and navigate the challenges created by rapidly evolving technologies.
As AI becomes more capable and widely adopted, Payton examines the implications for cybersecurity, privacy, trust and organizational decision-making.
Her presentations make complex security challenges understandable for business audiences, helping leaders recognize potential vulnerabilities and consider how to approach AI adoption responsibly.
For organizations focused on cybersecurity, technology leadership and responsible AI, Payton brings a practical perspective on balancing innovation with protection.
The GDA Perspective: With nine bookings through GDA, Theresa brings her experience in cybersecurity, privacy and technology leadership to audiences navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Which AI Keynote Speaker Is Right for Your Audience?
While all 10 speakers address artificial intelligence, the experience they bring to the stage and the conversations they inspire can be very different.
One of the most important decisions an event planner can make is determining what their audience actually needs from an AI presentation.
For example, an organization introducing AI tools to employees may need a speaker who makes the technology approachable and provides practical examples. A senior executive audience may be more interested in how AI will disrupt business models, influence long-term strategy or reshape their industry.
These aren't the only ways these speakers can contribute to an event. Many can tailor their presentations to specific industries, leadership challenges and organizational goals.
The key is identifying the perspective that will be most valuable to your particular audience.
Why Book an AI Keynote Speaker?
Artificial intelligence is no longer a conversation reserved for technology companies. It's influencing nearly every industry, from healthcare and financial services to manufacturing, education and professional services.
A great AI keynote speaker can help organizations turn uncertainty into understanding and identify opportunities they may not have considered.
The right speaker can help your audience:
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Understand what's changing: Make sense of emerging AI technologies and what they mean for your industry.
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Identify practical opportunities: Explore how AI can improve productivity, decision-making, customer experiences and business performance.
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Prepare for the future of work: Understand how technology is reshaping roles, skills and leadership expectations.
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Navigate risks and responsibilities: Consider cybersecurity, privacy, ethics and the importance of human oversight.
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Build confidence around change: Help employees and leaders approach AI with curiosity, adaptability and a clearer sense of direction.
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Turn insight into action: Move beyond AI hype with ideas and strategies that support organizational goals.
The goal isn't simply to teach audiences about artificial intelligence. It's to help them understand what it means for their future.
How to Choose the Right AI Keynote Speaker for Your Event
Not all AI keynote speakers approach the topic in the same way. Some focus on the latest technological breakthroughs, while others specialize in business implementation, leadership, cybersecurity or the future of work.
Before choosing a speaker, consider what your audience needs most.
For executive and leadership audiences: Look for speakers who can connect AI developments to business strategy, organizational transformation and long-term competitive advantage.
For employees and cross-functional teams: Consider speakers who make AI approachable and provide practical examples of how it can support everyday work.
For industry-specific conferences: Prioritize speakers with relevant experience in your sector who can address the opportunities and challenges your audience faces.
For audiences concerned about AI's impact: Look for experts who can address cybersecurity, ethical considerations, workforce change and the importance of human judgment.
Presentation format also matters. A traditional keynote can introduce a compelling vision for the future, while a customized fireside chat or interactive discussion may be especially valuable for organizations seeking deeper insights into their specific challenges.
Ultimately, the best AI speaker is the one who can meet your audience where they are and help them take the next step.
Frequently Asked Questions About AI Keynote Speakers
How much does an AI keynote speaker cost?
AI keynote speaker fees can vary significantly based on the speaker's experience, demand, event location, presentation format and level of customization.
Recognized technology leaders and high-profile AI experts may command higher fees, while other speakers can provide excellent value for organizations with more defined budgets.
Working with an experienced speakers bureau can help you identify options that align with both your budget and event objectives.
Can AI keynote speakers customize their presentations?
Many AI keynote speakers offer some level of customization based on the audience, industry and goals of the event.
The extent of that customization varies by speaker. Some may incorporate industry-specific examples, while others offer interactive discussions or workshops.
It's important to discuss your expectations during the selection process so you understand what each speaker can provide.
What makes a good AI keynote speaker?
An effective AI keynote speaker should combine subject-matter expertise with the ability to make complex ideas understandable and relevant.
The best fit will depend on your audience. Some events benefit from a speaker with hands-on AI implementation experience, while others need someone who can explore the broader implications of technology through compelling stories and big-picture thinking.
How far in advance should you book an AI keynote speaker?
It's generally best to begin your speaker search as early as possible, especially if you're considering a high-demand expert or planning a major corporate conference.
Early planning gives you more time to explore availability, evaluate options and coordinate the details that contribute to a successful presentation.
Find the Right AI Keynote Speaker With GDA Speakers
AI is evolving quickly, and finding the right voice to address it can feel just as challenging as keeping up with the technology itself.
Since 1999, GDA Speakers has helped companies, associations and organizations connect with speakers who deliver meaningful insights and memorable event experiences.
Whether your audience needs a practical introduction to generative AI, a strategic perspective on business transformation or a deeper understanding of the future of technology, our team can help you explore artificial intelligence keynote speakers who align with your goals.
We take the time to understand your audience, event objectives and desired outcomes so you can find a speaker who delivers more than information. They deliver value.
Your event deserves the right speaker. We make it happen.
Contact GDA Speakers to explore AI keynote speakers for your next event.
