How can I help?
I partner with executive teams to navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI implementation, then work hands-on alongside engineering teams to realize those plans.
With twenty years in international C-level roles and a decade as a Staff Engineer, I bring both strategic vision and technical depth to every engagement.
Whether you're evaluating AI opportunities, implementing your first features, or scaling your internal AI capabilities, I can guide you in building robust AI solutions that deliver measurable value.
AI Strategy & Engineering
From opportunity assessment to custom LLM solutions, I help executive teams develop AI roadmaps and work hands-on with engineers to bring them to life through proof-of-concept validation and production deployment
AI Leadership
Build and direct high-performing AI teams with a focus on clear technical direction, robust architecture decisions, and removing obstacles to delivery. From talent development to implementation oversight
AI Due Diligence &
Risk Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of AI initiatives, from technical feasibility and market positioning to regulatory compliance and risk mitigation. For both investment decisions and established companies
Steve Ball
Founder of Realizd AI
London • Remote
About Me
Background
I'm a technology leader with decades of C-level experience, focused on turning AI strategy into production reality. With a foundation of 10+ years as Staff Engineer and 20 years as CTO/VP/Director, I bring hands-on engineering skills to developing realistic AI strategy and product vision. I've led multiple AI implementations from concept through to delivery as Senior Director of AI.
Current Focus
I partner with executive teams to develop AI strategies, then work alongside engineering teams to bring these visions to life, helping teams master the new generation of AI tools and techniques.
Working Style
I believe in close collaboration with both executive and engineering teams, bridging the gap between strategic vision and technical implementation. My approach combines strategic guidance with hands-on support, ensuring AI initiatives deliver real business value.
Professional Philosophy
Real Solutions Over Hype
AI is powerful, but it's not magic. I focus on production-ready solutions that deliver genuine business value, not empty promises.
AI That Amplifies Your Vision
I ensure AI complements and accelerates your goals, fitting into your existing roadmaps, rather than competing with them.
Responsible AI Development
Innovation should never compromise safety or trust. I guide organizations forward confidently by anticipating challenges and building in appropriate safeguards.
Interactive AI Assessment Tool
Discover your organization's AI readiness in under three minutes. Whether you're exploring AI, beginning to engage with its possibilities, or simply curious, this tool offers a clear, actionable snapshot of where you stand.
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From Strategy to Execution
My expertise spans the complete AI implementation journey. Each service area below is designed to address critical challenges organizations face when moving from AI concepts to production reality.
AI Strategy & Engineering
Drawing on my background in developing high-performance systems and leading technology transformation initiatives, I bring practical engineering experience to both strategy and implementation. My approach combines strategic planning with hands-on technical leadership, ensuring solutions are both ambitious and achievable.
AI Leadership
My experience spans building and directing international engineering teams across multiple sectors, from financial services to educational technology. I focus on establishing clear technical direction, fostering innovation, and removing obstacles to delivery. Having scaled teams from small groups to specialized AI, mobile, and platform engineering divisions, I understand how to build and lead teams that deliver results.
AI Due Diligence & Risk Assessment
Drawing on my experience as COO and VP at Credit Suisse, where I managed risk and compliance across global IT divisions spanning US, EMEA, and APAC, I bring deep expertise in technical due diligence and strategic technology assessment. My focus is on thorough, objective evaluation of AI capabilities, market risks, and implementation challenges.
What people say
“Steve has one of the most informed and precise intellects I have ever worked with. He demonstrated a reliable capacity for recruiting top 5% technology professionals and high-quality defensible decision making. Definitely sets the benchmark for talent in tech.”
“Steve's vision and execution in AI transformed GoodHabitz into an industry pioneer. He didn't just recognize the potential of LLMs, he turned that insight into groundbreaking features that put the company a full year ahead of competitors. What sets him apart is his ability to both architect innovative AI solutions and build the teams needed to deliver them at scale. His deep technical understanding, combined with his talent for leading engineering teams through complex AI implementations, makes him exactly the kind of leader organizations need as they navigate the AI revolution.”
“Steve is a tech leader who combines a deep understanding of technology with a strategic vision for leveraging advancements like AI to transform businesses. At GoodHabitz, he recognized the potential of AI early on and promptly established a dedicated team, leading hands-on engineering efforts that positioned the company at the forefront of EdTech AI. His ability to educate and guide the company resulted in much-deserved recognition from Prosus. Beyond his technical achievements, what truly sets Steve apart is his genuine care for people. He builds teams that feel valued. His leadership is not just about results; it's about fostering a workplace where everyone feels encouraged to grow. ”
