How we chose the 2026 Pacesetters
To create the 2026 list of Pacesetters , a team of expert Fast Company editors and writers, along with a group of external judges, sought out groundbreaking executives in a variety of industries who are using generative artificial intelligence , autonomous agents, and machine learning to find new ways to inspire and retain their customers. Because Pacesetters—a new recognition program presented…
Fast Company has unveiled the inaugural class of the 2026 Pacesetters, a recognition program introduced by Tata Consultancy Services. An editorial team comprising Fast Company editors, writers, and external judges collaborated to identify leaders who leverage cutting-edge technologies such as generative AI, autonomous agents, and machine learning to innovate and enhance customer engagement.
The selection process entailed a thorough evaluation of nominees, both self-nominated and those recommended by Fast Company's editorial staff and judges. This panel comprised distinguished individuals including Amit Bajaj, CEO of TCS North America, Taryn Crouthers, CEO of Big Spaceship, Michael Horn, Global Head of AI at Omnicom, Reggie Marable, Chief Customer Officer at Sierra, and Nic Morales, VP of Customer Experience at Cohere.
The final list, unranked, underscores how innovative technologies and a customer-centric approach are reshaping business dynamics. The 40 honorees exemplify exceptional innovation in employing new technologies to transform both internal operations and customer interactions.
Written by urgent.news from Fast Company's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
