preetham hegde: COmmunications & Digital Engagement Chair

Preetham has over a decade of experience as an Advisor for Emerging Technology to the Mayor of New York City. In this role, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including the widespread adoption of technology to address critical urban challenges, the use of blockchain to reduce insurance fraud, and is currently involved with regulation and implementation of AI to deliver services to over 9 million New Yorkers. Before transitioning to public service, he held tech leadership roles in the private sector at IBM and Walt Disney World, where he honed his expertise in innovation and strategic execution. His commitment to policy and innovation extends globally, as demonstrated by his participation in the G20 India Policy Council. Currently, he is advising two startups in India and has also had the unique opportunity to executive produce two National Award-winning Indian movies.

He is a Senior Executive Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School with specialization in Public Policy and Technology.

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