Sana Khareghani

Sana Khareghani, Professor of Practice in AI at King’s College London, with her impressive background in Computer Science and an MBA from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, stands as a luminary in the realms of Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Ethics, and Innovation. Her career, spanning over two decades, encapsulates a broad spectrum of roles across the private and public sectors, illustrating her versatility and depth of knowledge.

From her early days as a software engineer in both burgeoning start-ups and established corporates to her impactful role as a management consultant advising senior officials across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, Sana's journey is a testament to her profound understanding of the tech landscape. Her position as the Head of the UK Government's Office for AI— a pivotal unit bridging the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS)—highlights her central role in shaping the future of AI and technology policy in the UK.

Under Sana's leadership, the Office for AI laid down critical infrastructural pillars including Skills, Access to Data, International Collaboration, and Leadership by the UK AI Council, aimed at bolstering AI and Data technology adoption across the economy for societal benefit. Her visionary approach is not just about leveraging AI for economic gain but ensuring its integration serves the greater good, reflecting a deep commitment to ethical considerations in the rapid evolution of technology. This blend of technical acumen and ethical foresight makes her a sought-after speaker in international forums, where she shares insights on responsible AI development and the socio-technical challenges it presents.

In addition to her governmental work, Sana's influence extends to academic and advisory roles, underpinning her multifaceted contribution to the AI and tech communities. Her positions as a Professor of Practice in AI at King’s College London, a Board Member of Technovation, and an advisor to several prestigious organisations, including the Tortoise Media Global AI Index and the Bristol Interactive AI Centre for Doctoral Training, highlight her commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech leaders. These roles, coupled with her speaking engagements at esteemed events such as the CogX Festival and The Alan Turing Institute AI UK event, underscore her pivotal role in shaping the discourse around AI and innovation.

Sana’s accolades, including her feature on ComputerWeekly’s Most Influential Women in Tech List and her involvement in the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Review, reflect the tech community's recognition of her contributions. Her trajectory from a hands-on software engineer to a strategic leader and an ethical voice in the AI space exemplifies a journey of relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep-rooted commitment to societal betterment through technology. As AI continues to reshape our world, voices like Sana Khareghani's are essential in guiding its ethical deployment and maximising its benefits for humanity.