Ashwin Rao

Ashwin Rao, a distinguished professional in the field of Artificial Intelligence, shares his amazing journey in his career. He has an outstanding educational background in Computer Science and Theoretical Computer Science- Algorithmic Algebra. Moreover, he has taught subjects across Pure as well as Applied Mathematics, Programming, Finance, Supply-Chain, and Entrepreneurship. Rao is now an Adjunct Professor in Applied Mathematics (ICME) at Stanford University where he researches and teaches Reinforcement Learning. He directs the Mathematical and Computational Finance program at the university as well.

Mr. Rao is a seasoned leader who led Target’s global Artificial Intelligence team. During his tenure at Target, he led the team responsible for products involving Demand Forecasting, Inventory Planning & Control, Price Optimization, Personalized Recommendations, Search, and Marketing Science. He also invested heavily in recruiting and mentoring rare talents, fostered a vibrant team culture, focused on the RIGHT business problems to solve, and met challenging goals through diligent prioritization.

In addition to his work at Target and Stanford, Mr. Rao has also been an Advisor at Hired, Inc., a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley, C.E.O. at ZLemma (acquired by Hired, Inc.), and Vice President at Goldman Sachs.

Ashwin Rao's educational and professional background provides a glimpse of his expertise in the field of Artificial intelligence, Reinforcement Learning, Supply-Chain, and Mathematical and Computational Finance. He is a renowned leader, educator, researcher, and mentor.