Noelle Russell

Founder & CEO of the AI Leadership Institute & Global Responsible AI Ambassador

Noelle Russell’s Biography:

Noelle Russell is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the AI Leadership Institute and serves as the Global Responsible AI Ambassador for the United States. Recognised as the #1 Agentic AI Leader in 2025, she has been instrumental in shaping the ethical use and strategic adoption of artificial intelligence worldwide. As a sought-after speaker, Noelle shares her deep expertise in responsible AI, digital transformation, and inclusive innovation. Having influenced nearly one billion dollars in AI revenue for Microsoft and developed over one hundred conversational AI applications used by millions globally, she continues to redefine the relationship between technology and humanity.

Noelle’s early career began with a degree in Computer Science and Business Administration from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Her journey through roles at Red Hat and IBM ignited her passion for enterprise technology and accessible education. As a Senior Architect at Amazon, she contributed to the foundation of Alexa’s AI capabilities before moving on to lead AI initiatives at Microsoft, IBM, and Accenture. Between 2022 and 2024, she served as Managing Director of Global AI Solutions at Accenture, pioneering large-scale AI strategies for global enterprises.

A five-time Microsoft AI Most Valuable Professional, Noelle has received numerous accolades, including Trailblazer of the Year by Women in AI and the AI & Cyber Leadership Award from DCALive. Her influence as a thought leader is reflected in her publications, global keynotes, and commitment to advancing responsible AI. She continues to advise organisations and governments on the ethical integration of emerging technologies.

Why Hire Noelle Russell?

Noelle is an experienced global AI leader who brings over two decades of hands-on expertise from organisations such as Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, and Accenture. She has delivered impactful talks at major conferences, government panels, and Fortune 500 summits, combining deep technical insight with an inspiring vision for the future of responsible AI and leadership in the digital era.

Noelle Russell’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Noelle Russell’s influential career in AI, cyber leadership and technology:

• 2025 – Led the launch of Ascendion’s AAVA and AVA+ agentic AI platforms on AWS Marketplace, expanding global accessibility
• 2024 – Named to the Wall Street Journal CEO Council, contributing to global discussions on business leadership and innovation
• 2022 – Founded and became CEO of Ascendion, steering the company’s mission to transform enterprise software through AI
• 2020 – Appointed Group CEO of Collabera Holdings, overseeing strategy and digital transformation across global operations
• 2020 – Joined the Forbes Technology Council, sharing insights on technology leadership and AI-driven business growth
• 2017 – Became SVP and Global Head of Markets at Cognizant Digital Business, leading large-scale digital transformation initiatives
• 2001 – Promoted to SVP and Global Business Head of Analytics and Information Management at Cognizant, driving data strategy and innovation
• 2001 – Earned an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow, developing a foundation in business strategy and leadership
• 1998 – Graduated with a BE from Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, beginning his career as a software engineer