AI + Authenticity with Andy Farnum

As brands and marketers face rising skepticism and an explosion of AI-generated content, standing out—and standing for something real—has never been more urgent. This presentation explores how creative leaders and marketers can champion authenticity at the intersection of innovation and trust.

• Creative guidance: Best practices for blending technology, creative risk, and ethical brand safety through authentic storytelling
• Practical tools: How AI can supercharge research and planning, and elevate creative and messaging to win pitches and achieve client results faster and more efficiently?
• Competitive edge: Why making responsible AI core to your brand sets you apart

Andy serves on the Board of AAF Seattle and works at Microsoft as a liaison between a product engineering team and the broader marketing community worldwide. He brings together creative, technical, and business expertise to bridge the gap between relatable storytelling and advanced technology.With a background in agency leadership, most recently as an Account Director supporting Microsoft’s Cloud and AI portfolio, Andy has pitched, won, and delivered hundreds of projects—from technical infographics to multimillion-dollar global video series—earning more than a dozen industry awards along the way.Andy holds a degree in Philosophy from Seattle University, an advanced project management certification from Stanford University, and technical certifications in Azure AI engineering and cloud computing fundamentals. He has also studied photography and the creative process at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). Andy lives in Seattle and enjoys travel and photography.