Lazard, Inc. announced on September 2, 2025, the appointment of Dmitry Shevelenko, Chief Business Officer of Perplexity, to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. This move strengthens Lazard’s commitment to integrating AI-driven insights with its financial expertise to advance its tech-enabled vision.
Shevelenko’s appointment aligns with Lazard’s focus on leveraging AI to enhance financial advisory and asset management services. “His leadership in artificial intelligence will help advance our tech-enabled vision,” said Peter R. Orszag, CEO and Chairman of Lazard. With the global AI market in financial services projected to grow at a 25% CAGR through 2030, Shevelenko’s expertise is poised to bolster Lazard’s strategic initiatives.
As Chief Business Officer at Perplexity since October 2023, Shevelenko oversees all operations, driving the AI-powered “answer engine” platform valued at over $1 billion. His prior roles include senior positions at Uber, LinkedIn, and Meta, where he led product management and business development. He co-founded Tortoise, focusing on retail automation, and holds patents in social networking and transport tech. A Columbia University graduate, he is fluent in multiple languages and mentors in the tech community.
Shevelenko will contribute to Lazard’s long-term strategy, combining AI insights with its intellectual capital to deliver unparalleled client solutions. “A firm with Lazard’s legacy and belief in AI’s transformative potential is rare,” said Shevelenko. Dan Schulman, Lead Independent Director, noted, “Dmitry’s expertise strengthens our strategic position and governance.” This move supports Lazard’s goal to navigate the AI-driven paradigm shift in finance.
While Shevelenko’s AI expertise enhances Lazard’s capabilities, integrating cutting-edge technology into a 177-year-old firm may face challenges, such as aligning traditional financial practices with rapid AI adoption. Competitors like Goldman Sachs, with established AI strategies, could pose competition if Lazard’s implementation lags. However, Shevelenko’s proven track record and Lazard’s $253.7 billion AUM (as of July 31, 2025) provide a strong foundation for success.
Founded in 1848, Lazard (NYSE: LAZ) is a leading financial advisory and asset management firm operating in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. With $253.7 billion in AUM as of July 2025, it advises on M&A, capital markets, restructuring, and geopolitics.
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