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Jeff Merritt

Head of Urban Transformation, Member of Executive Committee | World Economic Forum San Francisco, United States of America

Biography

Jeff Merritt is an internationally recognized expert in urban development, emerging tech, and cross-sector innovation with 25+ years of experience driving social and economic change. He leads a global team advancing public-private collaboration across 140+ cities, including initiatives such as Yes/Cities and the Davos Baukultur Alliance, to accelerate more resilient and sustainable economic growth and planning. Prior to joining the Forum, he served as New York City’s first Director of Innovation, where he helped pioneer the city’s smart city strategy and investments in digital infrastructure.

Sessions

12:25h

High-Level Roundtable | SMART CITY EXPO

Inclusive and Equitable Cities: What We Need and What We Lack?

Jeff Merritt World Economic Forum Head of Urban Transformation, Member of Executive Committee Speaker

Lisa Kelvey KPMG Global Head of Infrastructure & Transport Speaker

Maimunah Binti Mohd Sharif Kuala Lumpur City Council Mayor Speaker

Sandra Baer SmartCitiesWorld Brand Ambassador Moderator

#Citizens' Engagement, #Policies, #Social Inclusion, #Urban Global Agendas, #Wellbeing

2025-11-05 12:25 2025-11-05 13:15 Europe/Madrid Inclusive and Equitable Cities: What We Need and What We Lack?

As global tensions and inequalities deepen, the role of cities as spaces for opportunity becomes essential. By embracing forward-thinking policies and a strong focus on wellbeing, governments are advancing towards fostering cities where individuals and communities can truly thrive. Smart cities, guided by inclusive governance and the responsible use of emerging technologies, can guarantee access to essential resources and become powerful engines for prosperity and fulfilling urban life.

This session will feature a video message from Mr. Raffaele Fitto, Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms of the European Commission, addressing the EU Agenda for Cities.

Main Stage

Wed 5 12:25h - 13:15h Main Stage Visitor Pass not allowed