Jay Bellissimo

Bellissimo assists agencies with their digital transformations, connecting them with cloud technology and artificial intelligence solutions. As state health officials look to improve contact tracing during the coronavirus pandemic, they’re hoping AI can help predict the next wave of infections. But Bellissimo believes leaders have a responsibility to own AI as they introduce the technology. “If you’re just applying the technology and not really thinking through the consequences, you as a leader are not really doing your job,” Bellissimo said. “So I think it starts with making sure there’s a well-thought-out strategy, and with that strategy, you need to create governance.” The general manager is also very active in IBM’s LGBT+ efforts, having two gay children himself, and challenges his employees to get involved in the communities they serve to promote diversity. “The statistics will prove time and time again that high performing teams are highly diverse teams,” Bellissimo said.