Chris Wade

Chris Wade is best known as the co-founder and CEO of Cognitiv, an AI-driven programmatic advertising company that applies deep learning neural networks to media buying and audience targeting. Under his leadership, Cognitiv has positioned itself as a differentiated player in the DSP and custom algorithm space, offering advertisers bespoke AI models rather than one-size-fits-all targeting approaches. His work has helped bring sophisticated machine learning capabilities into the hands of performance-focused advertisers at scale. Before founding Cognitiv, Wade built his career across digital media and programmatic advertising, gaining experience in data-driven marketing and audience solutions. His technical and commercial background informed Cognitiv's founding thesis — that custom deep learning models could outperform standard programmatic targeting by learning the unique conversion patterns of individual advertisers rather than relying on generic audience segments. Wade is a recognized voice in the AdTech community on topics including artificial intelligence in advertising, the future of programmatic media buying, and the evolution of targeting in a cookieless environment. He has spoken at industry events and contributed to conversations around how machine learning can address identity and signal loss challenges facing the industry.

Last updated Jul 10, 2026 by ATDb automated enrichment · Connections updated Jul 13, 2026