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