Maria Axente

Maria Luciana Axente is an accomplished AI policy expert, speaker, and executive with a proven track record of success in the technology industry. In her current role as the newly established Head of AI Public Policy and Ethics, she aligns PwC's AI strategies with ethical considerations and regulatory trends, fostering collaboration with external stakeholders and leading PwC's responses to public policy consultations and initiatives. Previously, Maria lead the PwC Responsible AI, ensuring that the deployment of AI and data is ethical and responsible across the firm and its clients. With a passion for advocating responsible AI practices, Maria advises governments, regulators, policymakers, and research institutions on AI public policy. Her expertise and thought leadership in AI ethics have been recognized with global awards, and she is a trusted advisor, senior researcher, and guest lecturer on the topic. Additionally, Maria is an advocate for AI for children and serves as a member of the UNICEF #AI4Children Advisory Board and the World Economic Forum Generation AI programmes. Maria's dedication to high professional standards and ethical best practices has made her an influential leader in the responsible AI field, shaping the industry for the betterment of society.