Dr. Vijay Gurbaxani serves as the Senior Advisory Board Member to CriticalRiver Inc., bringing deep expertise in digital transformation, enterprise strategy, and the economics of artificial intelligence. A globally respected academic and advisor, he works with senior leaders and board members to offer insight into how AI and digital technologies are reshaping organizations, operating models, and sources of competitive advantage.

Dr. Gurbaxani's contributions have been recognized through his selection as a Distinguished Fellow of the Information Systems Society, a Leading Voice by the Society for Information Management Research Institute, and a member of the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains.

With more than forty years of experience at UC Irvine's Paul Merage School of Business, including his roles as the Taco Bell Endowed Professor of Technology Management and Senior Associate Dean, Dr. Gurbaxani has been a leader in advancing innovation in management education, research, and executive engagement. He is also the Founding Director of the Center for Digital Transformation, a highly regarded research center dedicated to advancing evidence-based, practical thought leadership on digital technology and AI, helping ensure that executives, faculty, students, and society are prepared for future success.

Dr. Gurbaxani's advisory work focuses on AI-powered business transformation, the strategic and economic implications of AI adoption, and the organizational capabilities required to build and scale technology-driven advantages. Known for his ability to translate complex technical and economic ideas into clear, actionable leadership insight, he works closely with executive teams to support sound decision-making amid rapid technological change.

Dr. Gurbaxani regularly contributes to academic, executive, and public forums worldwide and is deeply committed to advancing thoughtful leadership in the age of AI. He is particularly passionate about helping organizations and individuals develop the skills needed to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys music and continues his determined—if humbling—efforts to improve his guitar playing.