Bill Akins, a Stanford-educated Chick-fil-A executive director and University of Arkansas Artificial Intelligence and Honors Marketing professor, excels in AI-driven decision-making and mentoring future leaders. Starting as an intern at Apple, he has over twenty-five years of experience in digital and physical retail leadership roles, including Walmart Global Technology, where he helped revitalize data monetization and the rise of the “data citizen.” A recognized leader in digital innovation an author of the best-selling book, “Pivotal Leadership,” Bill is a member of the Forbes Technology Council, founded the annual NWA Technology Summit and has earned accolades like the “40 Under 40” and a spot in the “Arkansas 200 Executives” Hall of Fame. He is also known for his expertise in shopper marketing, and as a faculty member for the Path the Purchase Institute, he imparts knowledge in digital marketing, AI, and consumer behavior. To learn more about Bill, his passion for innovative leadership, and project portfolio highlights, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/billakins/