Consulting Firms Start Naming Dedicated AI Strategy Officers — Vertex Is the Latest

The Vertex Companies have appointed Chad Paulin as AI Strategy Officer, effective mid-August 2026 — a newly created role designed to develop the firm’s AI direction while keeping that strategy directly tied to client delivery rather than isolated in an internal planning function.

Paulin brings over 25 years of consulting experience, including development of proprietary tools for the industry. His mandate at Vertex will span both internal AI strategy and direct client work — a structure that signals Vertex’s intent to commercialize AI capability rather than treat it as a back-office function.

Key Takeaways

• Delivery-connected strategy: Unlike many AI strategy roles that sit in corporate functions, Paulin will remain client-facing, ensuring AI initiatives connect to actual project delivery.
• Acceleration, not a reset: Vertex has already integrated AI into some existing technology. Paulin’s hire is framed as accelerating work already underway, not starting from scratch.
• Industry-wide signal: The creation of a dedicated AI Strategy Officer role at a mid-market consulting firm reflects the broader institutionalization of AI governance in professional services.

CEO David Tortorello stated: “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.”

Chief Commercial Officer Mary Beth Edwards added: “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.”

The Vertex appointment is one of a growing number of signals that consulting and professional services firms are formalizing their AI investment — not just as a technology upgrade, but as a strategic differentiator with clients navigating risk and operational complexity.

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