IRIS Software Group has appointed Surya Sagi as its first Chief Data and AI Officer, marking a significant step in the company's AI and data strategy. The newly created executive role underscores IRIS' commitment to helping customers unlock greater value from their data through responsible artificial intelligence, improved governance, and scalable enterprise innovation. Sagi brings more than three decades of experience in data platforms, AI, cloud-native SaaS, and enterprise technology leadership.
The appointment of Surya Sagi represents the first time IRIS Software Group has established a dedicated executive position focused entirely on data and artificial intelligence. The move reflects the company's strategy of embedding AI more deeply across its software portfolio while ensuring strong governance and measurable customer outcomes.
Sagi will lead IRIS' global enterprise data and AI initiatives, including enterprise-wide data governance, responsible AI policies, and AI-driven product innovation.
Beyond developing AI capabilities, Sagi will focus on implementing governance frameworks that ensure AI is deployed responsibly across IRIS' products and operations. His responsibilities include scaling proven AI capabilities, identifying high-impact business opportunities, and delivering practical AI solutions that improve productivity and decision-making for customers.
The role also includes participation in IRIS' AI Steering Committee and Business Systems Architecture Review Board, helping establish a unified approach to AI development and enterprise data management.
Prior to joining IRIS, Sagi founded ARKA AI and ARKA Advisors, where he advised organizations on transitioning from AI experimentation to governed enterprise deployment. Earlier in his career, he served as Chief Technology Officer at Pitney Bowes and has led cloud-native SaaS platforms, enterprise integrations, and technology transformations across regulated industries.
His experience is expected to strengthen IRIS' ability to accelerate AI innovation while maintaining enterprise-grade governance and operational reliability.
IRIS serves organizations across accountancy, payroll, HR, and education, where AI is increasingly being integrated into mission-critical workflows. By establishing a dedicated Chief Data and AI Officer role, the company aims to transform data into a strategic asset while delivering faster insights, smarter automation, and measurable business value for customers worldwide.
"AI only matters if it makes a real difference to the people who rely on us. Our customers trust IRIS with the work that must work, and that's what this is about. Surya has spent his career building data and AI platforms that make that work faster, smarter, and more reliable. His technical depth and proven track record will be instrumental as we accelerate our AI ambitions and continue to turn innovation into real outcomes for customers. His appointment as our first Chief Data and AI Officer marks a defining moment in how we build and deliver for the businesses that count on us." said Jason Dies, CEO, IRIS Software Group
The appointment highlights a broader shift across enterprise software providers toward executive-level AI leadership. As organizations move from AI experimentation to enterprise-scale deployment, governance, responsible AI, and data strategy are becoming central to long-term digital transformation initiatives.
IRIS Software Group is a leading global software provider of accountancy, payroll, HR, and education solutions. Serving more than 100,000 customers across 135 countries, the company delivers software and services that help organizations automate critical business operations, improve compliance, and drive productivity through cloud-based technology and AI-powered innovation.
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