Dr Maria Aretoulaki

I have been working in AI and Machine Learning for the past 30 years: NLP, NLU, Speech Recognition, VUI & Conversational Experience Design. Having started in Machine Translation and Neural Networks for Text Summarisation, I have focused on natural language conversational human-machine interfaces, mainly for Contact Centre applications across all the main verticals for organisations worldwide. 


I have designed, built and optimised conversational Speech IVRs, Voicebots, Chatbots, Voice Assistants and Digital Assistants in several languages for large Enterprises worldwide (Big Tech, Telecoms, Retail Banks, Insurance, Utilities) and Government saving my B2B clients up to $10 million annually.


In 2018, I coined the term “Explainable Conversational Experience Design”, which later morphed to “Explainable Conversational AI” and more recently – with the explosion of LLMs and the ChatGPT hype – to “Explainable Generative AI” to advocate for transparent, responsible, design-led AI bot development that keeps the human in the loop and in control.


Having run my own company, DIALOGCONNECTION Ltd for 14 years, I joined GLOBALLOGIC / HITACHI in 2022 where I am a Core Member of the UK Consumer Solutions & Experiences capability, the global Generative AI Practice, the AI/ML Practice and the Web3/Blockchain Practice, helping shape the company group’s Explainable Conversational AI and Responsible Generative AI strategy. I focus on Language Engineering, Prompt Engineering, Prompt and Chatbot Design, Ontology Design, Knowledge and Content Engineering. I also work on METHOD design projects and I am a Core member of the global HITACHI Design Group and the HITACHI AI Policy Working Group, where I have contributed to the Hitachi official response to the NTIA Accountability in AI proposal and the Biden-Harris OSTP National Priorities for AI RFI.


I hold a Post-Doc in Voice & Conversational AI, a PhD in Neural Networks for Text Summarisation, an MSc in Machine Translation & a B.A. Hons in Linguistics & English.


On a more personal note, I am a recovering DJ and Politician and an improvising mum of an inquisitive and hilarious boy.


 
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