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Baghdad Gherras
👨🏻💻Chief Data Officer 🚀 Venture Partner 💊 Web 3.0 and AI
Professional Background
Baghdad Gherras is a seasoned expert in the realms of Data Science, Blockchain, and Finance, bringing over 14 years of rich experience to his current roles. He holds prestigious positions as Venture Partner at Antler MENAP, Chief Digital Officer at Medad Holding, and Chief Product Officer at Al Hail Holding. His influence extends further as a board member of Allied Investment Partners. In these roles, Baghdad has been pivotal in shaping strategic initiatives across various sectors, notably within the innovative portfolios of companies under Medad and Al Hail Holding. These portfolios feature significant entities like Zand Bank, Transguard, and CBRE MENA, along with diverse real estate and infrastructure assets.
Under his leadership, Baghdad has spearheaded groundbreaking projects that focus on Artificial Intelligence, blockchain technologies, and digital asset innovations. His strategic acumen has continuously drove innovation and fostered new opportunities within the group, enhancing their impact in the market.
Previously, Baghdad held the position of Head of Data Science and AI at Zand, one of the leading banks in the UAE, where he played a crucial role in integrating data science into banking practices. His experience further extends to his time spent as Data Science and AI Practice Head at a prominent French consulting firm, where he collaborated with global institutions including Google, Booz Allen Hamilton, and the UAE Prime Minister's Office. His vast experience uniquely positions him at the intersection of technology and finance.
In addition to his corporate endeavors, Baghdad has made his mark in academia. He served as an adjunct professor at both IE Business School and Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai, where he shared his expertise in data science with aspiring professionals in MSc programs. His commitment to fostering future talent reflects his dedication to education and knowledge dissemination.
Moreover, he has earned recognition as a Google Developer Expert and serves as a Mentor for the Google MENA Accelerator. His involvement in community building and knowledge sharing in AI speaks to his passion for empowering others in the tech ecosystem.
Education and Achievements
Baghdad's educational background is as extensive as it is impressive. He received hands-on training in the latest developments in data science through the Data Science Summer School at École Polytechnique. Following this, he earned a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Finance from the Department of Financial Engineering at Université Lumière Lyon 2, focusing on financial modeling and quantitative analysis.
Additionally, Baghdad participated in a joint program with MIT Sloan, one of the top MBA programs globally, at Sun Yat-sen University, further solidifying his expertise in business and finance. Complementing these credentials, he acquired another Master of Science (M.Sc.) in International Economics from iaelyon School of Management, culminating with his Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Applied Economics from the same institution. His diverse educational background equips him with a multifaceted understanding of economics, finance, and technology, which he seamlessly integrates into his professional roles.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Baghdad has reached numerous milestones and serves as a respected voice in the fields of data science and AI. His previous role as Chief Data Officer at Medad Holding LLC showcased his forward-thinking approach to leveraging data-driven strategies for organizational excellence.
His impactful lectures as an adjunct professor have inspired many budding data analysts and scientists, planting seeds of knowledge in the next generation of leaders in data science. As an AI Product Design mentor under Google Developer Experts, Baghdad played a significant role in cultivating innovation and encouraging practical applications of AI technology among startups and emerging companies in the MENA region.
His experience as Economic Analyst at Business France and Corporate Analyst at HSBC allowed him to analyze technology trends and provide valuable insights into market dynamics, further exemplifying his analytical prowess. The breadth of his expertise also includes serving as an Engagement Manager for Data Science and AI at Davidson Consulting, showcasing his abilities in guiding organizations through their digital transformation journeys.
With his extensive background in both the private and public sectors, spanning education, tech, and finance, Baghdad Gherras continues to redefine what it means to be a leader in the convergence of technology and financial services.
Achievements
- Over 14 years of experience in Data Science, Blockchain, and Finance
- Venture Partner at Antler MENAP
- Chief Digital Officer at Medad Holding
- Chief Product Officer at Al Hail Holding
- Board member of Allied Investment Partners
- Led strategic AI and blockchain projects
- Former Head of Data Science and AI at Zand
- Data Science and AI Practice Head for a French Consulting firm
- Adjunct Professor at IE Business School and RIT Dubai
- Google Developer Expert and Mentor for Google MENA Accelerator
