Paul Aaron

Paul Aaron is the CEO and co-founder of Addition, an applied artificial intelligence studio specializing in AI system design and development for brand creativity. Addition has developed AI solutions for global brands, including Google, Kraft Heinz, Unilever, Prudential, Amazon, and The New York Times. The company’s work in AI innovation has been recognized by Wall Street Journal and has received multiple Cannes Lions Awards.

Before co-founding Addition, Aaron spent two decades in the advertising industry, leading creative technology, digital production, and user experience strategy for agencies such as Crispin Porter Bogusky and Droga5. He has held roles including digital executive producer, digital strategy director, agency partner, and founder, contributing to advancements in advertising technology and marketing. Aaron’s work has earned several Webby Awards and recognition for Cannes Digital Agency of the Year and Agency of the Decade by Ad Age.

Earlier in his career, Aaron co-founded Sherpa, a travel planning platform recognized as a Top 10 Travel App by the Webby Awards. He also co-founded Modern Assembly, leading design and technology projects for a diverse client base.

Aaron’s accolades include 10 Cannes Lions, including a Grand Prix, five Webby Awards, and two Agency of the Decade honors. He holds a Machine Learning in Business degree from MIT Sloan School of Management. Under his leadership, Addition has developed AI tools and experiences such as "CannesGPT," an AI system trained on case studies from Cannes Lions award-winning campaigns to generate creative ideas.

Aaron is recognized as a thought leader in AI system design, speaking at conferences including SXSW, Cannes Lions, AICP, ANA, and Mirren. He has collaborated with Suzana Apelbaum, head of AI innovation at Google AI Lab, on the SXSW talk "How AI Systems Will Make Brands More Human." With expertise in advertising innovation and applied artificial intelligence, Aaron is a prominent voice on the evolving relationship between brands and AI.