> Markdown version of [/@rahul-deshpande](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/@rahul-deshpande). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Rahul Deshpande
Head of R&D at Mastercard moving AI and emerging tech from concept to customer impact.

## About

Rahul Deshpande leads research and development at Mastercard, moving emerging technologies from early concepts to measurable impact at a global scale. 

Before his current role, he served as CTO at Ethoca, building systems to prevent fraud and manage chargebacks. With degrees in artificial intelligence and business, he focuses on how companies can actually win with AI by relying on sound strategy and human judgment rather than just raw infrastructure.

Based in St. Louis, Rahul serves on the board of the local Children's Museum.



## Past Sessions

### World Congress 2026 North America · September 23, 2026
San José, CA
- [Winning With AI](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100538-winning-with-ai) · 30 min · 🎥 Watch recording



## Videos

- [Winning With AI](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100538-winning-with-ai) · Neel Sundaresan, Wolfgang Platz, Rahul Deshpande, Felix Holtermann