Michael N. Colella is the Global Head of AI at Monster Energy, where he leads artificial intelligence innovation strategy for the global drink brand. Previously, he served as a senior global analytics leader at AXS, a live entertainment ticketing partner to more than 500 premier venues, sports teams, and event organizers worldwide. At AXS, he advanced the company’s global data and analytics strategy through AI-powered insights, modern data platforms, and monetization frameworks. Earlier in his career, Michael served as Chief Data Scientist and Technology Leader at Boston Consulting Group’s Gamma practice, where he led AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics initiatives and oversaw Retail Catalyst, a flagship product for retail transformation. He also served as Chief Data Scientist at Upshop, a SaaS platform that optimizes fresh-food operations, inventory, and omnichannel order management in real time. Michael began his career conducting behavioral and cognitive neuroscience research supported by a Department of Defense grant before transitioning to applied data science. Over the past two decades, he has led transformative analytics initiatives across retail, e-commerce, healthcare, and marketing. He also advises AI-powered startups on strategies for growth and scale.
Michael holds a BS in psychology and biological sciences from DePaul University, an MA in psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, an MS in applied data science from the University of Chicago, and an MS in technology management from Columbia University. He also completed post-graduate work at Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Northwestern University.
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