Former HARMAN Exec Is Cerence’s New VP of Innovation Services

Cerence has brought on Sujal Shah as its new Head of Professional Services. Shah has been working with automotive AI technology for the past 23 years, and joins Cerence after a stint as the Vice President of Innovation Services with HARMAN International’s Connected Services Business Unit.

As VP of Innovation Services, Shah was asked to facilitate the development of a number of different in-car AI services, including infotainment systems, safety systems, and virtual assistants. Most notably, he contributed to the development of an advanced driver monitoring solution, and a computer vision solution that uses external cameras to warn drivers about collisions, lane changes, and other objects in the road. Shah has also worked with Google to develop new applications using the Android Automotive platform, and oversaw the development of in-car products like wireless chargers and smart displays.

Shah will fill a similar role on the Cerence team. He will specifically be asked to guide the development of new products and services for auto manufacturers and the company’s other Tier 1 customers. In addition to HARMAN, his career includes prior stops at Alpine Electronics, Nissan North America, and the DaimlerChrysler Corporation.

“Sujal brings deep professional services expertise that is critical to the next phase of growth for Cerence,” said Cerence CEO Sanjay Dhawan. “We are excited to leverage his experience and proven track record to deliver the car of the future to our automaker customers.”

“In my time in the automotive industry, I have long been familiar with the Cerence team and the exciting work the company is doing to advance the future of mobility,” said Sujal Shah. “I am thrilled to join the team and advance our vision of a safer, more enjoyable journey for everyone by bringing our Professional Services offering to the next level.”

Dhawan served as the CTO of HARMAN before taking over as the CEO of Cerence, while HARMAN has vouched for the utility of the Cerence’s Studio development platform. Cerence also introduced an updated version of its Cerence Drive platform earlier this month.