Condé Nast named Vasanth Williams its new chief product and technology officer today, bringing on the product and engineering executive as the publisher deepens its investment in artificial intelligence. Williams starts Dec. 8.
The appointment arrives as Condé Nast also becomes a pilot partner in a new Microsoft program designed to compensate publishers when their content is used in AI-generated responses. Under the agreement, Condé Nast’s U.S. text-based editorial content will be licensed for use across Microsoft Copilot experiences, the companies said.
Together, the hire and the partnership reflect the publisher’s push to accelerate its product strategy at a moment when generative AI is reshaping discovery, distribution, and reader habits.
“Our technology and product ambitions are central to how we serve audiences today. As we deepen that commitment, Vasanth is exactly the leader we need,” said Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch in a statement. “His track record across media, technology and large-scale innovation makes him uniquely suited for this moment.”
Scaling product and AI initiatives
Williams joins from Major League Baseball, where he served as chief product officer and EVP of engineering.
In that role, he oversaw innovation across streaming, fan experience, and on-field technology — experience Condé Nast is leaning on as it modernizes its own platforms. Before MLB, he held leadership posts at Amazon, Microsoft, and Yodle.
As CPTO, Williams will be responsible for advancing Condé Nast’s digital ecosystem through new tools and platforms, with a particular focus on “the thoughtful use of AI” to personalize content and strengthen audience relationships.
He will also work closely with editorial teams to refine user journeys and build products that deepen engagement across the company’s portfolio, which includes brands like Vogue, GQ, The New Yorker, Wired, and Vanity Fair.
A new licensing model with Microsoft
Williams’ arrival comes as Condé Nast simultaneously positions itself at the forefront of an emerging AI licensing economy.
Through its partnership with Microsoft, Condé Nast will license its U.S. text-based editorial content to help ground AI-generated summaries across Copilot products.
