Michael May

Dr. Michael May is a technologist and researcher, especially in the areas of AI, data analytics, machine learning and big data architectures.  He is heading the Company Core Technology Data Analytics & AI at Siemens. In Siemens Corporate Technology, Munich, he is responsible for fourteen research groups in Europe, US, and Asia.

Before joining Siemens in 2013, Michael was Head of the Knowledge Discovery Department at the Fraunhofer Institute for Intelligent Analysis and Information Systems in Bonn, Germany. In cooperation with industry he developed Big Data Analytics and machine learning applications in sectors ranging from telecommunication, automotive, and retail to finance and advertising.

Michael also coordinated two Europe-wide Data Mining Research Networks funded by the European Commission. He was also the local chair of the International Conference on Machine Learning ICML 2005, ILP 2005 and program co-chair of the European Conference on Machine Learning ECML/PKDD Industrial Track 2015. 
Michael holds a PhD in ‘Machine discovery of causal relationships’ from the Graduate Programme for Cognitive Science at the University of Hamburg.

At AI for Purpose Summit 2024, Germany, he is on panel discussion on Challenges and Opportunities of AI Governance.

Michael May began his professional journey in the technology sector, focusing on the integration and management of IT systems. His early career saw him working on various consulting projects, where he developed a robust understanding of IT strategy and systems integration. These initial roles provided him with the experience needed to manage complex technological projects and deliver tailored solutions that meet client needs.

In 2004, Michael joined Siemens, a pivotal move that marked the beginning of a significant phase in his career. Initially serving as the IT Infrastructure Manager for Logistics & Assembly, he oversaw the implementation of critical infrastructure projects. His role expanded as he became the Global Shared Services IT Portfolio and Organisation Manager, where he was responsible for optimising IT services across the organisation.

Michael's expertise was further recognised when he was appointed Chief IT Architect at Siemens IT Solutions and Services. In this role, he focused on driving IT service management and service provisioning automation based on Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) and Model-Driven Architecture (MDA) concepts. His efforts were crucial in refining and implementing the IT infrastructure for a global company, ensuring it could support operations in over 40 countries.

In 2011, Michael transitioned to Atos, where he served as the Account CTO for Nokia Networks. Here, he managed innovation, provided technology and IT trend consulting, and aligned architectural solutions with business objectives. His work at Atos involved significant pre-sales and sales support activities, contributing to projects such as the Citrix Innovation Award-winning mobility portal solution for Nokia Solutions and Networks.

Michael returned to Siemens in 2015 as the Director of IT Audit in Iselin, New Jersey. Leading a team of IT auditors, he supported Siemens' transformation in areas such as cybersecurity, IT general controls, and IT service management. His leadership was instrumental in enhancing the company's compliance and risk management frameworks.

Since August 2018, Michael has been serving as the Senior Innovation Manager and Technology Strategist in the CTO Office at Siemens in Nuremberg, Germany. His responsibilities include overseeing innovation management, developing technology strategies and roadmaps, and conducting technology scouting. Michael's areas of expertise include startups, quantum computing, industrial AI, and the data economy.

In addition to his work at Siemens, Michael has been an advisor at ObjectBox since April 2021, providing guidance on the development of high-speed NoSQL databases with integrated data synchronization for edge and mobile environments. His career reflects a deep commitment to technological innovation and strategic management, making significant contributions to the organisations he has been part of.

Dr. Michael May envisions a future where technological innovation drives sustainable growth and societal benefit. His focus is on integrating advanced technologies such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence into industrial processes, fostering a collaborative ecosystem that bridges the gap between startups and established enterprises. He aims to create strategic roadmaps that not only enhance operational efficiency but also promote ethical and responsible technology use, ensuring that advancements contribute positively to the global economy and society.