Stagwell, the marketing challenger network built for digital transformation, has appointed John Kahan as its first-ever Chief AI Officer. Reporting directly to Mark Penn, Chairman and CEO of Stagwell, Kahan will lead the network’s AI-driven initiatives, accelerating innovation across its global marketing and advertising ecosystem.

A Seasoned AI and Data Leader

With nearly 40 years of expertise in AI, data analytics, and digital transformation, Kahan has an extensive track record in product development, marketing, and strategic consulting. His previous leadership roles at Microsoft and IBM solidified his reputation as a pioneer in AI-powered business transformation.

Most recently, Kahan served as Vice President and Chief Data Analytics Officer at Microsoft, where he was instrumental in developing key data-driven platforms and insights that contributed to Microsoft's growth into a $3 trillion company.

Stagwell’s Commitment to AI Innovation

Under Kahan’s leadership, Stagwell aims to:
Embed AI and automation across its marketing services
Enhance data-driven decision-making for clients
Drive industry-leading advancements in AI-powered marketing technology

"Kahan's leadership will be key in driving our AI initiatives forward, ensuring we continue to provide unparalleled value to our clients," said Mark Penn, CEO of Stagwell. "His extensive background from Microsoft and IBM aligns perfectly with our vision to lead the industry in technological innovation."

Kahan’s Vision for AI at Stagwell

Recognizing the rapid evolution of AI and MarTech, Kahan is eager to push the boundaries of how AI enhances marketing strategies and business performance.

"I'm especially excited to be joining at such a pivotal time for the challenger network," said Kahan. "The pace of innovation in AI and marketing technology is accelerating like never before, and Stagwell is committed to pushing boundaries that will drive meaningful transformation for the industry at large."

Stagwell’s appointment of John Kahan as Chief AI Officer underscores its dedication to AI-driven marketing innovation. As AI reshapes the industry, Kahan’s expertise will help position Stagwell as a leader in the next generation of marketing transformation.