Maryam Haghighi (she/her)

Dr. Maryam Haghighi is a leader in data, technology, and transformation in the public and private sectors. She is the first Director of Data Science at the Bank of Canada, responsible for the vision and development of strategies in data, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and emerging technologies. She has built globally recognized research teams combining sophisticated techniques and scientific discoveries into policy making.

Previously, she was Canada’s delegate to international advisory panels under the United Nations, where she helped develop the current global risk standards for aviation safety. Her experience is at the confluence of science and policy and crafting compelling narratives for innovation within the context of complex ecosystems, such as within central banking and transnational organizations.

Prior to this, she steered the largest budget analytics memorandum to cabinet for nation-wide security programs. This led to the employment of thousands of diversely talented people across Canada. She directed the team that pioneered the first ever space-based analytics system in a satellite constellation.

She obtained her PhD in Mathematics from the University of Ottawa. She is a board member at philanthropic organizations and has been a consultant for start-ups. She is passionate about the role of women in STEM and is active in community outreach.