Chief Executive, ZestAI
Mike de Vere has served as chief executive of Zest AI since January 2020, spearheading rapid expansion for the Burbank-based fintech. Zest AI, founded in 2009, develops AI-driven credit underwriting technology to help banks and credit unions expand equitable access to lending. The company was recognized as one of the fastest-growing fintechs on the 2024 Deloitte Technology Fast 500, and it was named to CNBC’s 2025 World’s Top FinTech Companies list. Before becoming chief executive, de Vere was the company’s chief operating officer. His professional background includes leadership roles at Nielsen Holdings, Harris Interactive, and J.D. Power.