Chris McNeilly
I'm a serial technology entrepreneur and AI leader with over 30 years of experience helping companies transform into AI-native organizations. As a Fractional Chief AI Officer, I guide businesses through comprehensive AI strategy development, build high-performing teams, and ensure AI initiatives drive measurable outcomes like the 70%+ automation and 90% cost reduction I achieved at Chegg. I specialize in turning AI potential into business reality through practical roadmaps, quality frameworks, and executive coaching that accelerates growth.
My Story
I'm a seasoned AI and data science leader with over 30 years of experience in machine learning and artificial intelligence, having served as the lead technologist for multiple startups and established companies. My expertise spans generative AI, NLP, and complex data modeling across diverse industries including EdTech, online marketplaces, B2B SaaS, and online publishing. Currently, I focus on upskilling companies to become Generative AI Native and transforming their product development fundamentals.
My track record includes leading transformational AI initiatives at major companies like Chegg, where as Vice President of Machine Learning, I spearheaded a company-wide transformation to Generative AI that achieved 70%+ automation in answer generation while reducing costs by 90%. At eBay, I drove over 10% annual GMV gains through ML models that improved search relevance and listing quality. Throughout my career, I've consistently delivered revenue-driving innovation, from building data science capabilities from the ground up at startups like Motista to creating breakthrough ML models like Career Pathways at Chegg.
As a Fractional Chief AI Officer, I now help organizations navigate their AI journey through strategic planning, quality evaluation frameworks, and executive coaching. I develop comprehensive AI maturity models, create vendor scorecards, and guide leadership teams through the complexities of AI transformation. My approach balances ambitious long-term vision with practical short-term wins, ensuring companies can take full advantage of AI's potential to remove traditional barriers to software development and reach customers in ways that previously required massive budgets and timelines.