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The AIconics Awards Europe 2025

Outstanding Contribution to AI Award

What Makes an Outstanding Contribution to AI Award Winner?

The Outstanding Contribution to AI Award will recognise an individual based in the United Kingdom or Europe who has made a sustained and significant contribution to the AI industry over a period of 10 years or more by the entry eligibility deadline of 1 March, 2025.

Who is eligible?

Any individual who has worked in the AI industry for 10 years or longer, whether in academia, industry, government, or non-profit sectors. Entrants must be residents in the United Kingdom or Europe.

🏆 And the Winner Is...

Rohit Dhawan, PhD headshot

Rohit Dhawan, PhD

Rohit Dhawan, PhD is the Group Head of Artificial Intelligence at Lloyds Banking Group, based in the United Kingdom. With a distinguished career spanning over a decade in the financial services industry, Rohit is a recognized leader in AI strategy and implementation. He oversees transformative AI initiatives that drive innovation and efficiency within Lloyds Banking Group. Rohit's expertise includes leveraging advanced AI technologies to enhance customer experiences, optimize operational processes, and ensure robust data-driven decision-making across the organization. His leadership is instrumental in shaping the future of AI in banking, focusing on sustainable growth and digital transformation.

2025 Outstanding Contribution to AI Award Shortlist

Rux Dariescu headshot

Rux Dariescu

Rux Dariescu is a Strategic Advisor, Executive Coach, and AI Product Strategist known for her impactful contributions to the AI industry. With a diverse background spanning strategic advising and executive coaching, she brings a wealth of experience to her role. Rux has been recognized for her innovative approach to AI product strategy, making significant strides in reshaping how organizations leverage artificial intelligence. Her work continues to drive forward-thinking initiatives that advance both technology and business innovation in the UK and beyond.

Rohit Dhawan, PhD headshot

Rohit Dhawan, PhD

Rohit Dhawan, PhD is the Group Head of Artificial Intelligence at Lloyds Banking Group, based in the United Kingdom. With a distinguished career spanning over a decade in the financial services industry, Rohit is a recognized leader in AI strategy and implementation. He oversees transformative AI initiatives that drive innovation and efficiency within Lloyds Banking Group. Rohit's expertise includes leveraging advanced AI technologies to enhance customer experiences, optimize operational processes, and ensure robust data-driven decision-making across the organization. His leadership is instrumental in shaping the future of AI in banking, focusing on sustainable growth and digital transformation.

Jith M headshot

Jith M

Jith M is a seasoned technology leader with a robust background in artificial intelligence and machine learning. He currently serves as the Global Chief Technology Officer at Hexaware Technologies, where he drives innovation and oversees the strategic deployment of AI solutions. With over two decades of experience in the IT industry, he has a track record of spearheading transformative initiatives that harness the power of AI to enhance business outcomes. His expertise spans across diverse domains, including IT strategy, digital transformation, and enterprise architecture, making him a pivotal figure in advancing AI-driven innovations globally.

Margi Sheth headshot

Margi Sheth

Margi Sheth is a seasoned leader in data and AI policy governance, currently serving as the Senior Director of Data & AI Policy & Governance at AstraZeneca. With a robust background in shaping ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks for AI applications, Margi plays a pivotal role in navigating the intersection of technology and regulatory compliance. Her expertise spans over key sectors, ensuring responsible AI deployment and fostering innovation in data-driven strategies. Margi is committed to advancing AI's transformative potential while upholding rigorous standards of ethical practice and governance.

Sudarshan S. Deshmukh headshot

Sudarshan S. Deshmukh

Sudarshan Deshmukh is a distinguished AI Architect with a robust career at Laya Healthcare, specializing in leveraging artificial intelligence to drive innovation and efficiency in healthcare solutions. With a background marked by technological prowess and strategic acumen, Sudarshan has been instrumental in pioneering advanced AI applications that enhance operational excellence and customer satisfaction within the healthcare sector. His leadership and contributions continue to shape the landscape of AI integration in healthcare, ensuring cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of the industry.

The AIconics Awards logo

The AIconics are a benchmark for industry excellence, recognising the achievements of individuals and organisations instrumental in breakthrough innovation and cutting-edge application of artificial intelligence in business.

Participation in these awards positions you and your organisation as a thought leader in the AI domain, and serves to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding contributions of and you and your peers.