AI Center Of Excellence: Matthew
Matthew brings over 19 years of AI, data science, and consulting experience across both public and private sectors. As the founder of a boutique advisory, and a former executive at firms including Booz Allen Hamilton, EXL Services, and Blue Orange Digital, he has led numerous enterprise AI transformation initiatives.
Q. How do you describe your independent consulting offering and the typical focus of your work?
I specialize in AI strategy and implementation, helping organizations identify high-impact AI opportunities and build practical roadmaps. My work typically focuses on bridging the gap between technical possibilities and business outcomes, ensuring AI initiatives deliver measurable value while managing risks and change effectively.
Q. What are the specific benefits that you, as an independent, offer and how do you explain your value?
As an independent, I offer unbiased expertise without vendor lock-in, rapid deployment without bureaucracy, and cross-industry insights from diverse engagements. I bring deep technical knowledge paired with business acumen, helping clients navigate AI adoption at their pace while avoiding common pitfalls and maximizing ROI on their AI investments.
Q. What made you realise that AI was going to be significant in the next stage of your independent career?
After a decade-plus in data science and ML, the transition to AI consulting was a natural evolution. I'd built production models, led data teams, and seen the limitations of traditional ML firsthand. When generative AI emerged, I recognized it as the breakthrough that would make AI accessible to every business, perfectly aligning my deep technical foundation with unprecedented market demand.
Q. How do you start the conversations with clients about where AI is going to impact them?
I begin by mapping their current workflows, customer journeys and pain points, then demonstrate quick wins with existing AI tools. Rather than abstract discussions, I show tangible examples relevant to their industry. We identify areas where AI can augment human capabilities, automate repetitive tasks, and unlock new possibilities they hadn't considered.
Q. Describe a recent assignment in terms of success and outcomes and any personal learnings.
Recently helped a retail client implement AI-powered demand forecasting, reducing inventory costs by 30% while improving availability. The key learning was that change management matters as much as technology - we succeeded by involving frontline staff early, addressing concerns transparently, and celebrating small wins throughout the journey.
Q. What advice would you give to anyone about to embark on an independent career?
Focus on becoming the bridge between expertise and execution. Build a strong network before you leave, specialize but stay adaptable, and always prioritize client outcomes over billable hours. Invest in continuous learning, document your successes, and remember that your reputation is your most valuable asset in independent consulting.
Q.Finally, what do you like to do when you're not working in the depths of AI Consulting?
My family, wife and 6 year old, really enjoy traveling. We often spend our summers in Europe just riding the metros and eating too much food. I also really enjoy using my technical skills to build out daily fantasy football lineups. Now that the NFL is back I get to try and figure out how to create the perfect daily lineups.