Dr. Stefan Ortmans is a seasoned technology executive with over three decades of experience in the fields of artificial intelligence, speech recognition, and automotive software solutions. His career began in academia and research, where he earned a Ph.D. in computer science, specializing in machine learning and natural language processing. Ortmans held key leadership positions at prominent tech firms, including senior roles at Nuance Communications, where he spearheaded innovations in voice-enabled technologies. His expertise in scaling AI platforms has made him a respected figure in the industry, contributing to advancements that integrate intelligent systems into everyday applications. As the Former President and Chief Executive Officer of Cerence Inc., Dr. Ortmans played a pivotal role in establishing the company as a leader in conversational AI for the automotive sector. He joined Cerence following its spin-off from Nuance in 2019 and guided the organization through its initial public offering, fostering strategic partnerships with major automakers like BMW, Ford, and Toyota. Under his leadership, Cerence expanded its portfolio of voice assistants and edge AI solutions, enhancing in-car user experiences and driving revenue growth amid the rise of connected vehicles. Throughout his tenure, Ortmans achieved notable milestones, including the development of multilingual AI capabilities and integrations with emerging technologies like augmented reality for drivers. His strategic vision helped Cerence navigate competitive markets, securing its position in the evolving landscape of mobility tech. Post his role at Cerence, Ortmans continues to influence the industry through advisory positions and thought leadership on AI ethics and innovation.