Ernesto Gutiérrez de Piñeres is the Corporate Vicepresident of Technology of Grupo Aval. As a visionary strategist in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and innovation, he counts with a distinguished track record in generating value through technology in the energy and corporate sectors. His expertise has been instrumental for senior executives seeking to integrate AI, advanced analytics, and hyper-automation as key drivers of growth and competitiveness.

For over seven years, until August 2023, he led Ecopetrol’s technological evolution, holding key positions until becoming Vice President of Science, Technology, and Innovation. In this role, he spearheaded strategic projects that generated over USD $3 billion in benefits within five years, most notably Red Econova, Latin America’s first open ecosystem designed to tackle the country’s energy challenges, delivering a USD $600 million impact in 2022.

Previously, as Vice President of Digital (CIO & CDO) at Ecopetrol, he led the company’s digital revolution through AI, robotics, and advanced analytics strategies, creating over USD $1 billion in EBITDA and reducing costs by USD $50 million. His leadership in emerging technologies and open innovation models has been globally recognized, earning him the 2023 Forbes CIO of the Year award.

As CEO and co-founder of Seynekun, he drove AI and blockchain applications in sustainability and energy transition, reinforcing his vision of how technology can enhance business profitability and resilience in an evolving world.