David Akers is a Senior Director, Analyst in Gartner’s CIO and AI Leaders practice, where he advises CIOs and senior executives on how AI is reshaping enterprise strategy, leadership, and the future of IT.
His research centers on the rise of the autonomous business, exploring how AI and autonomous technologies are redefining enterprise strategy and business design. David is a core contributor to Gartner’s CEO survey, helping leaders interpret evolving CEO agendas and understand their enterprise‑wide implications for the C‑suite. He also focuses on the future of IT, including the evolving role of the CIO and the transformation of the IT workforce in an AI‑driven world.
David serves as the lead researcher for Gartner’s IT Symposium keynote, shaping Gartner’s signature perspective on emerging trends and their implications for technology leaders.
Previously at Gartner, David worked in the Finance practice, advising CFOs and investor relations leaders on investor messaging, valuation, and ESG.
Prior to joining Gartner, Dave held IT business and systems analyst roles, leading software development initiatives across both private and public organizations.
Enterprise Strategy
Technology and Digital Talent
Strategy and Strategic Planning
Enterprise Growth Strategy
CIO and Executive Technology Leadership
M.S., Machine Learning, George Mason University
M.A., Policy Analysis, University of Pittsburgh
B.A., Intelligence Analysis, Mercyhurst University
AI impacts on workforce
IT Symposium Keynote-related research/content
CEO survey
Enterprise strategy, including strategic planning, autonomous business, and AI-enabled strategy transformation
IT 2030