Sharon Richardson, PhD

Sharon Richardson, a data and technology expert, is making strides in the global community by helping organizations create and implement strategies that benefit from AI and data-driven innovations. With a PhD in cognitive and spatial data science and over 20 years of experience in enterprise software and digital platforms, Sharon is a thought leader in her field. She specializes in establishing themes that link data, technology, algorithms, and behavior change to create smarter environments and interactions. Such a skill requires her analytic talents, balanced approach, and ability to communicate effectively. Sharon's current role is as a Data+AI Strategist at Databricks, where she advises global organizations on the potential of AI and data-driven innovations. Prior to this position, she was a Senior Scientist and Lecturer in Geocomputation at University of Zurich and a 'Smart Cities' Doctoral Researcher at the Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis, University College London. Sharon's entrepreneurial background includes Founder and Principal Consultant at Joining Dots, Managing Technical Architect at Capgemini, and Enterprise Technology Strategist at Microsoft. Her education includes a bachelor's degree in computer science and psychology from Coventry University/Open University, a PhD in cognitive and socio-spatial data science, and an MSc in smart cities and urban analytics, which were both awarded by University College London.