Navigating the Impact of Generative AI and Large Language Models
A GD1 fireside chat with Jaikumar Ganesh, Head of Engineering @ Anyscale (ex. Uber, Android) and Heather Gadonniex, CMO & Operating Partner @ GD1

Sponsored by AWS Startups

Generative AI and LLM are having a transformative impact on the way we build products and operate our businesses.
Join us for an eye-opening fireside chat where we will explore Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) with Jaikumar and Heather. A deep dive into the impact of these cutting-edge technologies and their relevance in today's world, with an emphasis on how to incorporate AI into your operating models and product development. Our main focus of the chat will be on guiding startups and scale ups in New Zealand through these advancements.

Jaikumar Ganesh and Heather Gadonniex will take us through the applications born from Generative AI, the transformative enhancements it brings to product development, and the ever-evolving product and technological landscape. With their extensive experience in both Silicon Valley and the New Zealand startup ecosystem, they are uniquely positioned to provide valuable insights and strategies for navigating the landscape of Generative AI and LLMs. A rare conversation you shouldn’t miss!

What you can expect in this fireside chat:

Delve into the core essence of Generative AI and LLMs, understanding their strategic importance in how we work and how they impact product deelopment.
Gain insights into the applications and innovations these technologies have sparked, especially from the lens of founders and operators.
Explore the potential of Generative AI and LLMs in guiding startups and companies in New Zealand.
Address critical questions such as "Is Generative AI excessively hyped?", "Should we have concerns about AI?", and "Will it result in widespread job displacement?"
Questions from the crowd in our Q&A section, bring your curiosity and leverage the speakers’ knowledge.

Who should attend:

Startup and Scaleup Founders and operators: Discover how to leverage AI to drive innovation in your business.
Innovators and ecosystem enthusiasts: Learn about the transformative potential of Generative AI and LLMs.
Tech Enthusiasts: Stay updated on the latest advancements in AI and LLMs.

About the speakers:

Meet Jaikumar Ganesh
He currently serves as the Head of Engineering at Anyscale/Ray, key technology behind ChatGPT. He is also actively engaged in the New Zealand startup ecosystem, mentoring various startups and serves as a Tursted Global Advisor to GD1 portfolio companies. Having spent over 15 years in the Silicon Valley across startups and high-growth companies, he relocated to New Zealand two years ago. Notably, he was among the early team members at Android @ Google. Jaikumar has spent time as both a software engineer and working in engineering and technology leadership roles.

Meet Heather Gadonniex
As CMO and Operating Partner at GD1, Heather is working with GD1 portfolio companies to supercharge growth, and is leading both marketing and ESG initiatives for the firm. She also serves as a growth advisor to US based companies and is an independent board director. Prior to moving to New Zealand, she was VP of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships for a San Francisco based AI company that served customers developing LLMs, autonomous dirivng systems, and generative AI products. Heather has worked for nearly two decades in marketing and revenue generating roles, maininly in organizations focused on climate tech and artificial intelligence.

A huge thank you to AWS for championing the startup ecosystem by hosting us and sponsoring drinks and nibbles for the evening.