Vertex Names Chad Paulin AI Strategy Officer to Lead Its Consulting AI Push
"Artificial intelligence will continue to play a major role in the consulting industry."
The Vertex Companies announced on June 29, 2026 that Chad Paulin will join the firm as AI Strategy Officer starting in mid-August, a role created to develop Vertex's artificial intelligence strategy and guide how the consulting firm applies the technology to deliver results for clients facing complex risk and operational challenges.
Paulin's mandate spans both internal strategy and direct client work. In addition to shaping Vertex's overall AI direction, he will continue working directly with clients to address their project needs, a structure that keeps the AI Strategy Officer role connected to delivery rather than isolated as a purely internal planning function.
"Artificial intelligence will continue to play a major role in the consulting industry, and it's important to Vertex that we stay ahead of the curve to serve as a true strategic partner to our clients," said David Tortorello, CEO of Vertex. "Hiring an experienced industry leader like Chad to develop and innovate AI technology will ensure this remains a priority for our organization and in our client services."
Paulin brings more than 25 years of experience working with organizations across industries on complex challenges. His prior roles included developing proprietary tools designed to advance the consulting industry and improve client delivery.
"Not only is Chad a proven leader, but he is also a true innovator in the consulting industry with experience creating tools and solutions with meaningful impacts for clients," said Mary Beth Edwards, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Global Business at Vertex. "As AI continues to rapidly evolve and its full capabilities are uncovered, it's crucial Vertex is developing and executing a strategy for our firm and our clients."
Edwards noted that Vertex has already integrated AI into some of its existing technology, framing Paulin's arrival as an acceleration of work already underway.
The firm is betting that having a dedicated AI Strategy Officer with both a strategic mandate and direct client exposure will help it translate that existing technology integration into a more coherent, firm-wide approach as AI adoption across the consulting industry continues to accelerate.
Key Takeaways
- Vertex appoints Chad Paulin as AI Strategy Officer to enhance consulting AI capabilities.
- Paulin will integrate AI strategy with direct client engagement to improve service delivery.
- Vertex aims to remain a strategic partner by prioritizing AI innovation and development.
- Paulin brings over 25 years of experience creating impactful solutions in the consulting industry.
- AI's evolving role is crucial for addressing complex challenges in the consulting sector.