John Stocks, CIPM - Private AI
Professional Role and Responsibilities
John Stocks currently holds the position of VP of Sales at Private AI, a company noted for its work in applying advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning models to ensure data privacy. His primary responsibilities involve leveraging SaaS technologies to drive sales, maintain customer data confidentiality, and spearhead the company's growth from inception to securing the first million in revenue.
Professional Experience
- Private AI (Present): As the VP of Sales, John is instrumental in promoting the company's innovative products like PrivateGPT and GitHub pre-commit hooks. He regularly engages in activities centered on advancing data privacy technologies, including leveraging large language models (LLMs) and artificial intelligence (AI) for customer support and privacy protection.
- Limelight Platform (Oct 2017 - Aug 2020): Served as an account executive, where his efforts were crucial in driving new business opportunities and maintaining client relationships.
- Leonardo Worldwide Corporation (Feb 2016 - Oct 2017): In his role as a senior sales and marketing consultant, John focused on selling SaaS solutions to the hospitality sector.
- All Roads (Apr 2014 - Dec 2015): Acted as an account manager, helping clients enhance their online presence.
Educational Background
- University of Toronto – Victoria University: BA in History, Political Science, and European Studies.
- Concordia University: Graduate Diploma in Journalism.
Company Insights
Private AI specializes in developing privacy layers for software that can seamlessly integrate into various environments with minimal coding. The company has made significant strides in the data privacy sector, evidenced by recent products and technology launches:
- PrivateGPT: This tool allows companies to use OpenAI’s ChatGPT securely, eliminating privacy risks by scrubbing over 50 types of Personally Identifiable Information (PII).
- Cloud API: Offers seamless integration, automatic updates, and pay-as-you-go pricing for data privacy strategies.
- GitHub Pre-commit Hook: Screens for PII, PHI, and PCI in code repositories to prevent the accidental inclusion of sensitive data.
Achievements and Contributions
- Raised an $8 million USD Series A round, led by BDC Capital (Canada), to enhance product offerings and expand globally.
- Played a pivotal role in launching PrivateGPT and the GitHub pre-commit hook, facilitating safer data handling and coding practices.
- Instrumental in the company's webinars and public educational initiatives, helping demystify data privacy laws such as HIPAA and discuss best practices in AI and ML implementations.
Professional Traits and Philosophy
John Stocks is described as a SaaS sales veteran with a focus on tenacity, honesty, and curiosity. He emphasizes the importance of sustained success through genuine customer interactions and the strategic use of advanced technologies.
Team Interactions
John reports to Patricia Thaine, Co-Founder & CEO of Private AI, and collaborates closely with key figures such as Paul Burmester (COO) and Pieter Luitjens (Co-Founder & CTO). He leads a robust sales team and contributes significantly to the company’s leadership and strategic direction.
Contact and Online Presence
LinkedIn Profile: [John Stocks, CIPM](https://ca.linkedin.com/in/johndavidstocks)
Conclusion
John Stocks is a critical player in Private AI's growth and innovation in the data privacy domain. His background in SaaS sales, coupled with his strategic leadership at Private AI, positions him as a significant influence in advancing secure AI solutions.
