Michael Israel [#52]: Applying AI Across The Kraft Group

On today’s episode, I’m joined by Michael Israel, Chief
Information Officer at The Kraft Group, where he oversees a
complex digital ecosystem spanning everything from the New
England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, to global manufacturing
plants and commodities firms.


Since joining in 2019, Michael has led a sweeping transformation:
from deploying WiFi 6 and 5G across Gillette Stadium, to
installing IPTV screens and menu boards that unlocked new
sponsorship revenue. He’s introduced AI-driven safety systems,
automated raw material detection in manufacturing, and is now
overseeing a 5-year strategic tech partnership with NWN designed
to re-architect their digital backbone, all ahead of hosting
seven FIFA World Cup games in 2026.


In this conversation, we dig into how he’s planning for the AI
era, what it takes to futureproof a stadium like Gillette, and
why the guest experience - from concession speed to TikTok-ready
connectivity - is becoming a performance metric in its own right.





Time Stamps


2:00 - Introduction to Michael and The Kraft Group


3:30 - Applying Lessons from Outside Sports


8:00 - Capturing User Data


13:00 - Switching IT Provider and Implementing Innovation 


17:00 - Applying AI Across the Organisation 


25:00 - Learning from FIFA to Taylor Swift 


27:00 - Looking to the Future 





Additional Links


Connect with Michael on LinkedIn - Here


Connect with Andy on LinkedIn - Here