Ben is leading Bidwells plans to integrate advanced AI and data solutions, driving innovation and efficiency in its client services. He will lead the development and implementation of AI applications, oversee the firm’s data warehouse, and manage Bidwells’ AI and Data ‘Centres of Excellence’ aimed at upskilling teams and supporting clients with data-driven insights.
Bidwells announced earlier this year its plan to double the size of its business by 2030 with digital transformation identified as a driver of this growth.
Ben has held multiple positions at Bidwells since joining in 2017, overseeing both internal and external communications. His 20 years of experience in real estate, which includes stints as a journalist and public affairs consultant – and lifelong passion for the early adoption of technology – provide a unique perspective on the intersection of politics, society and business strategy.
Bidwells has been piloting the use of generative AI since early 2022. It’s marketing team’s innovative approach to AI adoption in professional services was recognised with the Best Use of AI award at the 2023 B2B Marketing Awards after delivering a significant return on investment for the firm.
Earlier this month Bidwells announced the recruitment of David Stringer from PwC as its Head of Transformation & Innovation to lead Bidwells’ wider efforts in digital innovation and organisational efficiency.
“Ben personifies our view on where the earliest value can be created by using generative AI to deliver our services and run our business,” said David Stringer, Head of Digital Transformation & Innovation.
“His proven track record in leveraging AI to drive business results, combined with his deep understanding of our firm and the property sector and crucially, excellent skills in communicating with both people and large language models, makes him the ideal person to help steer our firm’s approach to innovating our services with both predictive and generative AI.”
“It’s an exciting time to be taking on this role,” said Ben Lee, Head of Data and AI. “Generative AI has caught the public’s imagination, and the real estate sector is beginning to wake up to its potential to transform how we operate and deliver insights for our clients.
“But the hard work begins now. Delivering real value from AI takes a huge collaborative effort to leverage the expertise, insight and knowledge held within our business on behalf of our clients.”
Editors note: always experimenting, this press announcement was written by Ben using generative AI.