As we wrap up yet another remarkable year of achievements in data and AI, let’s revisit the 4th edition of the DAIR Awards! DAIR Awards is an event that continues to set the standard for recognizing excellence in these fields.
This year’s ceremony, hosted at Vasateatern in Stockholm, showcased among the very best in data, analytics, and AI. From groundbreaking projects to inspiring leadership, the evening celebrated contributions that shape the future of business and society!
Celebrating Excellence in Data and AI
The DAIR Awards celebrate the visionaries, innovators, and dedicated teams who push the boundaries of data-driven insights and AI-powered solutions. Each year, these awards honor those leading the way in advancing data and AI. They contribute to a future where technology and human ingenuity come together to drive meaningful change.
An evening of recognition and inspiration.
This year, the ceremony once again welcomed some of the top professionals from the data and AI community. It included current nominees, past award winners, and industry leaders. In addition, a large online audience joined the celebration through a live broadcast on LinkedIn.
Categories, Nominees, and Winners of 2024
The 2024 DAIR Awards featured multiple categories that highlighted diverse achievements in data and AI. Nominees represented a range of expertise and dedication, whether pioneering new technologies, fostering inclusivity within teams, or sharing knowledge across the industry. The winners of each category embodied the spirit of collaboration and commitment that the DAIR Awards celebrate, leaving a legacy for the community.
Individual Categories
Michael Bendixen was awarded Data Management Professional of the Year. Michael has redefined best practices in his role as Director of Data Governance at The LEGO Group. His innovative strategies ensure data is both secure and accessible. As a result, this empowers the company to remain a leader in leveraging data for global success.
Marisa Leysen Jestin, recognized as Analytics Professional of the Year, has revolutionized the use of analytics in her role as Head of Data Insights for Commercial Digital at Volvo Cars. Her leadership has transformed raw data into actionable insights, creating significant value and enhancing customer experiences.
Peter Vester, honored as Data Science Professional of the Year, has excelled as Lead Data Scientist at Novo Nordisk. His work has addressed complex challenges in healthcare, driving innovation and advancing the role of data science in improving lives.
Filipa Peleja, named Machine Learning Professional of the Year, has showcased her expertise as Lead Data Science Engineer at The LEGO Group. Her contributions have pushed the boundaries of machine learning, enhancing both product personalization and operational efficiency on a global scale.
Yngvar Ugland, awarded Artificial Intelligence Professional of the Year, has reimagined AI innovation as Colonel of Moonshots and Head of DNB NewTechLab at DNB Bank ASA. His leadership has led transformative AI projects, reinforcing the bank’s leadership in cutting-edge technology.
Saleem Pothiwala, recognized as Data Engineering Professional of the Year, has established new standards in his role as Founder and Data Engineer at Kermit Tech AS. His efforts in building seamless data pipelines and robust infrastructures have empowered businesses to unlock their data potential.
Luis Martinez, honored as Responsible AI Professional of the Year, has championed ethical AI practices as AI Product Compliance Manager at ASSA ABLOY. His commitment to ensuring fairness and compliance has set a gold standard for responsible AI across industries.
Anca Iordanescu, named Data and AI Community Voice of the Year, has been a driving force in fostering inclusivity as VP Engineering at IKEA Retail (Ingka Digital). Anca is also a Founder of WomeninTech Alliance-AI Society. Her advocacy for diversity in tech has amplified voices in the data and AI communities, inspiring innovation and collaboration.
Thomas Bolander, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement in AI award, has dedicated his career to advancing AI as a Professor at DTU – Technical University of Denmark. His research and contributions to AI education have profoundly shaped the field, strengthening his legacy as a pioneer in AI.
Organization Categories
KBLab at the National Library of Sweden was honored with the Data and AI Transformation Excellence Award for its efforts in integrating data and AI to revolutionize how cultural and historical resources are accessed. Their forward-thinking approach has set a benchmark for innovation in the public sector.
Scania received the Data Management Innovation Award for its methods in managing and leveraging data. By building robust systems and introducing cutting-edge tools, Scania has enhanced operational efficiency and set new standards in data management practices.
Novo Nordisk was celebrated with the Technical AI Innovation of the Year award for its exceptional advancements in AI technology. Their AI solutions have driven meaningful progress in healthcare, setting an industry-leading example of technical excellence.
Recognized for their outstanding use of AI to drive organizational growth, Novo Nordisk also received the AI-Driven Business Excellence Award (Private Sector). Their strategic implementation of AI has not only enhanced business performance but also elevated patient outcomes globally.
KBLab at the National Library of Sweden was also honored with the AI-Driven Business Excellence Award (Public Sector). This award was given for demonstrating how AI can transform public services. Their achievements in utilizing AI to streamline processes and improve accessibility have made them a leader in public sector innovation.
Novo Nordisk earned the Generative AI Excellence Award for its pioneering use of generative AI to innovate across various business domains. From creating personalized solutions to improving operational efficiency, their work represents the potential of generative AI in driving excellence.
Celebrating Innovation & Inspiring the Future!
For the fourth time, the DAIR Awards remind us of the power of data and AI to transform industries and empower communities. We are excited to see how these innovators will shape the future of data and AI in the years ahead!
Be Part of the AI Revolution at the Data Innovation Summit 2025!
The conversation doesn’t stop here. For a deeper dive into the next wave of AI and data-driven innovation, join industry leaders at the 10th edition of the Data Innovation Summit. Location: Stockholm. Date: May 7-8, 2025
This milestone event celebrates a decade of groundbreaking advancements. It offers a platform for exploring the transformative potential of data, analytics, and AI.
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