Speaker Bio: Matthew Simons is co-founder of AI Catalyst Partners. With over 20 years at the intersection of data, technology and creative, Matt has held senior roles at Epsilon and Acxiom, deploying machine learning for global clients including HP over 25 years ago. He now helps mid-market UK businesses harness AI for measurable growth, combining deep enterprise expertise with a practical understanding of the constraints smaller businesses face daily. Matt is known for cutting through AI hype to deliver honest, actionable guidance that drives real business results, not just more technology.

Title of your talk: The AI Adoption Paradox 

Seminar Description: Why do companies that spend more on AI tools often achieve worse results? This session unpacks the AI Adoption Paradox and reveals why most businesses approach AI implementation backwards. Drawing on real examples from mid-market companies, I will show how rushing to adopt tools without strong foundations leads to wasted investment, frustrated teams and poor outcomes. Attendees will learn why a foundation-first approach consistently outperforms a tool-first one, how to honestly assess their organisation's readiness, and the practical steps that separate businesses achieving real returns from those simply adding to their tech stack.