Kirsty Craig, head of research, data, and AI strategy for portfolio management technology at BlackRock, has emerged as a pivotal figure in the firm’s AI transformation. For 15 years, Craig has served as a bridge between investment professionals making strategic decisions and the engineers building the tools that power those decisions. Her ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable insights for portfolio managers has earned her a rare distinction: Tech Fellow, one of BlackRock’s highest honors reserved for only two dozen engineers across the firm. Craig was among five new fellows announced on December 16, recognized for her groundbreaking work in integrating artificial intelligence into investment processes. She stands out as the only woman among the new fellows and the only one not based within Aladdin, BlackRock’s central investment technology platform. Her team of around 60 engineers, data scientists, and data engineers operates horizontally across investment divisions, enabling innovation in fundamental equity, fixed income, and macro strategies. One of her most significant contributions is leading the development of Asimov, BlackRock’s agentic AI platform for fundamental equity research. Unveiled by COO Rob Goldstein during the firm’s investor day in June, Asimov functions as a virtual investment analyst, automating research workflows and slashing months-long processes down to days. The platform exemplifies BlackRock’s broader push to harness AI for active investing, staying competitive amid rapid advancements by rivals. Craig’s journey to this role reflects her unique blend of technical expertise and cross-functional leadership. Having worked in Edinburgh, San Francisco, and now Philadelphia, she has cultivated a deep understanding of diverse teams and organizational dynamics. Her strength lies in connecting investors and technologists—often speaking different languages—by identifying shared goals and crafting unified strategies. Nish Ajitsaria, co-head of Aladdin product engineering and co-executive sponsor of the fellows program, praised Craig as an “AI native” whose team operates at the “tip of the spear” in applying AI to investment. Her collaborative spirit and innovation have made her a trusted leader across divisions. As a woman in a high-profile tech leadership role, Craig sees her recognition as both an honor and an opportunity. With women representing just 43.8% of BlackRock’s global workforce and 33.1% of senior leadership as of January 2025, her visibility is meaningful. Participation in BlackRock’s women and LGBTQ+ resource groups has sharpened her communication and networking skills—tools she now uses to mentor junior female technologists and encourage them to “lean in.” Beyond her title, Craig is focused on expanding AI’s reach beyond equity research into fixed income and macro investing. She remains deeply engaged in shaping BlackRock’s long-term technology strategy while preparing for a personal milestone: her partner is due to give birth in early January. With celebrations kept low-key—just a meal out and essentials like cribs and bottles purchased—she plans to celebrate more fully after January 6.