Our Consultants

Chris Ballard

Chris Ballard is an experienced AI Consultant and Machine Learning Engineer with over 13 years of expertise in AI, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Generative AI. He has successfully delivered AI solutions across diverse industries, including education, security, and market research. With a strong background in software engineering and cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, Chris has led innovative projects that integrate AI and NLP to solve complex business challenges. He excels in managing AI/ML projects, building scalable AI pipelines, and collaborating with stakeholders to develop sustainable AI strategies.

In his recent roles, Chris has driven significant improvements in AI-based systems, achieving outcomes such as a 20% increase in email detection accuracy and $2M in operational cost savings through machine learning automation. He has also played key roles in advancing LLM research and developing AI-powered educational tools.

Dr Zoë Webster AI Leader and Innovation Consultant

Dr. Zoë Webster is a recognized AI leader with extensive experience in establishing and leading AI initiatives within FTSE100 companies. She has successfully built AI Centers of Enablement, delivering over £100 million in value through AI use cases, governance, and strategy. With a strong background in AI ethics and responsible AI standards, Zoë has contributed to numerous high-level business, government, and research initiatives. She is also a frequent keynote speaker and has been featured in prominent publications like The Telegraph and AI Magazine, where she was named one of the Top 10 Women in AI in the UK and Europe in 2024.

Zoë holds a PhD in Computer Science and has served in various leadership roles, including as AI Director at BT Plc, where she oversaw the deployment of AI models and the development of an MLOps platform. She is also a Non-Executive Director and former Chair of Governors at a local primary school.

Sajjad Khan

Sajjad Khan is a highly experienced and strategic Technology and Transformation Executive, specializing in driving large-scale, impactful initiatives within complex and regulated environments. With a career spanning multiple leadership roles across financial services and technology, Sajjad brings extensive experience in digital transformation, financial management, and operational strategy. Currently, as an AI and Innovation Consultant at SWIFT, he has developed a comprehensive AI strategy and roadmap to drive innovation and business value. This includes overseeing an AI-driven fraud prevention program collaborating with over ten global banks, tackling substantial financial losses on a global scale.

Sajjad previously held a pivotal role as Chief Operating Officer for Technology at CLS Services Ltd, where he managed an extensive operational budget, driving critical transformations across technology, people, and sustainability. His achievements at CLS include a £100 million cost reduction through strategic outsourcing, pioneering blockchain technology in new product development, and implementing a cloud migration strategy that yielded substantial agility and cost savings. Sajjad also spearheaded significant ESG transformations, aligning technology initiatives with corporate sustainability goals for emissions reduction and carbon neutrality.

With leadership experience extending to non-executive directorships, Sajjad served on the board of CLS Processing Solutions Ltd, a CLS startup focused on new revenue streams, where he drove 170% growth in sales and ensured a robust path to profitability. Earlier, at LCH Clearnet, Sajjad led critical integration and restructuring efforts, including a €60 million synergy capture post-merger with the London Stock Exchange and transforming financial models to enhance cost transparency and operational insight.

Academically, Sajjad holds a range of advanced qualifications, including a Diploma in Financial Strategy from Oxford’s Said Business School, a specialization in AI from London Business School, and Chartered Accountancy credentials from ICAEW. His diverse skill set, combined with a deep commitment to innovation and sustainability, makes him a valuable leader in navigating the intersection of technology and finance for global impact.