I’m Paul Smyth, an AI consultant and advisor based in Dublin, Ireland. I’ve worked in the software industry for 40 years. I started in the industry just as PCs began to dominate the technology landscape. Since then, I’ve experienced many technology trends through the years, the latest of which is Artificial Intelligence (AI).

I’ve run two technology companies providing IT services to large global enterprises and I’ve been a CEO and/or board director for over 25 years. I’ve been involved in presentations and contract negotiations with many senior executives at FTSE 250 organisations.

I also spent 8 years as a member of Vistage International, the global peer-group of business leaders. During my time there, I gained an in-depth understanding of the challenges other business owners face on a daily basis. I also got to contribute to many debates and to offer my advice to business leaders across a broad range of industry sectors.

WHAT DRIVES ME

My passion lies in helping owner-led companies use technology to win more business, launch new products or services and/or to operate more effectively. I bring strategic vision and commercial acumen to shape, direct and optimise how technology can help companies grow their businesses.

I enjoy working with C-level executives and business owners who want to exploit technology to build stronger companies. My goal is to make a substantial long-term contribution to the management of companies that want to grow their businesses.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

In my lifetime I’ve seen many technology trends that have had a huge impact on businesses, and society in general. The Internet Boom, E-Commerce, the Mobile Revolution, Social Media, Cloud Computing etc. But of all the trends I’ve experienced, it is perhaps Artificial Intelligence that will prove to have the biggest impact in the longer term. AI is going to become pervasive in both our business and personal lives.

It’s still early days, but already AI presents huge opportunities for business owners, and I am making it a mission of mine to help them take advantage of it. I have devoted much of my time to following the emerging AI trends, with a particular focus on how small to medium businesses can leverage the power of AI.

PERSONAL

I’m a big gadget fan and my house uses much of the latest home automation technology. My wife thinks my phone and tablet are surgically attached to me as I’m never without at least one of them on my person.

I’m a keen golfer and have built many business relationships on the golf course. Many of those relationships have turned into friendships also and I’ve subsequently travelled around the world with these friends to play golf. One highlight was a trip to The Masters in Augusta.

I’m also a big foodie and a keen cook, and I think nothing of traveling long distances to eat at a top restaurant. I rarely travel anywhere without having at least one Michelin-starred restaurant booked in advance.