Pinterest opens new Zurich hub and makes key hires as it taps AI and ML tech to boost user journey

Pinterest has announced the opening of a new Engineering Excellence Hub in Zurich, alongside the appointments of Matthias Zenger (VP, Engineering - Platforms) and Mirjam Wattenhofer (Distinguished Engineer).

The company says that the new hub underscores its commitment to leveraging AI and machine learning technologies to enhance every stage of the user journey - from inspiration to purchase.

Zenger oversees Pinterest’s technical infrastructure and foundational engineering platforms, enabling global scale innovation across the company. He brings 25 years’ of experience in software engineering, distributed systems and commerce technologies.

Wattenhofer will lead efforts to enhance Pinterest’s e-commerce technology and global user experiences. A specialist in building robust shopping architectures, she will accelerate progress in scaling and building out the e-commerce capabilities and the infrastructure for inclusive AI.

Matt Madrigal, Chief Technology Officer at Pinterest, says: "We’ve seen first-hand how AI is transforming the way people discover and shop for ideas they love.”

“By focusing on AI powered solutions that connect users’ unique tastes with inspiration, we’re creating a more personalised experience for them and delivering meaningful results for partners worldwide. With over half a billion people coming to Pinterest every month, harnessing AI is essential to provide relevant, inspiring experiences at scale.

"This expansion is a key part of our mission, and I’m truly excited to welcome exceptional talent like Matthias and Mirjam. Their extensive experience will help take our AI and shopping innovation to the next level.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

AI will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.