D'Amore-McKim School of Business Distinguished Professor and Associate Dean of Research Koen Pauwels has been named one of the 2024 Top AI Leaders in Retail by RETHINK Retail as part of its newly launched AiR (AI in Retail) program. The list highlights 150 leaders across 10 categories driving AI innovation, including Retailers & Brands, Technology, Investors, and Ethicists.
Pauwels joins honorees from companies such as Diebold Nixdorf, Intel, PwC, and Microsoft in this prestigious recognition. He will also join RETHINK Retail's existing communities of Top Retail Experts and Global Retail Leaders to collaborate on addressing complex industry challenges. The AiR platform offers members peer connections, private events, speaking opportunities, and more.
Known for his expertise in marketing analytics and big data, Pauwels has been at the forefront of research that bridges the gap between academic theory and real-world retail challenges. His work, which combines advanced AI techniques with deep insights into consumer attitude dynamics, has provided retailers with powerful tools to better understand and predict market trends, ultimately leading to more personalized and effective marketing strategies.
“This recognition means a lot for me, as it comes from decision makers and combines the disciplines of retail media and AI. Moreover, the list includes a group of stakeholders – in contrast to being named ‘Best Marketing Academic on the Planet' by one influential manager last year,” said Pauwels. “Finally, it is future-oriented, as I have just yesterday presented to the full group on genAI, and we are planning several collaborations.”
At D'Amore-McKim, Pauwels has led several initiatives aimed at integrating AI into curriculum, ensuring that the next generation of business leaders is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly technologically-driven world.