Speaker Profile

Karim Kassam is the Vice President of Intelligence at Teamworks, the leading software platform revolutionizing high-performance operations in sports, military, and public safety sectors. Kassam joined Teamworks as part of its 2024 acquisition of Zelus Analytics, a premier sports intelligence platform. At Teamworks, Kassam is dedicated to integrating Zelus’ cutting-edge analytics into collegiate football organizations, leveraging his extensive expertise in data science and analytics to drive innovation and deliver transformative solutions. His role underscores Teamworks’ commitment to empowering organizations with unparalleled insights and tools to achieve peak performance.

Kassam’s career is marked by a deep focus on applying advanced analytics to solve complex problems across the sports world. He established and led the research group at the Pittsburgh Steelers, pioneering data-driven initiatives to enhance football operations. His influence extended to other major organizations, including the Minnesota Twins and the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he guided data science strategies that redefined decision-making processes. 

In addition to his work in sports, Kassam has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing data science across various industries. He brought his analytical acumen to Legendary Entertainment, applying predictive modeling to inform strategic decisions around blockbuster movies such as Godzilla and Interstellar. At Duolingo, Kassam applied his expertise to education technology, helping to understand user experience, improve learning outcomes, and optimize monetization for the company’s millions of daily users. His ability to adapt and innovate across disciplines speaks to his versatility and the breadth of his impact.

Before transitioning to the private sector, Kassam was a professor at Carnegie Mellon University, where he merged academic rigor with practical applications of data science. His academic work focused on decision processes and the role of emotion, establishing his reputation as a thought leader in data-driven strategy. Kassam’s academic achievements include earning a Ph.D. from Harvard University in 2010, a foundation that has informed his innovative approaches throughout his career.

At Teamworks, Kassam continues to make a significant impact, shaping the future of high-performance operations through his expertise in product development, strategic planning, and analytics. His leadership reflects Teamworks’ mission to empower organizations with the tools and insights needed to excel in today’s competitive landscape.

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