The AI in Business Podcast

Venkatesh Palani, Senior Director and Head of Engineering for Risk and Trust at eBay, dives deep into the complexities of eCommerce fraud. He shares insights on how AI fuels both fraud and protection efforts, discussing pressing issues like deepfakes and synthetic identities. Venkatesh examines the dark web's role in escalating fraud and the struggle of retail leaders amidst inadequate law enforcement. He emphasizes balancing user experience with robust fraud detection and the importance of data collaboration in the fight against evolving threats.

Kimberly Powell, Vice President of Healthcare and Life Sciences at NVIDIA, is at the forefront of AI in healthcare. She discusses how AI is revolutionizing patient care through hybrid cloud solutions and real-time data processing. Kimberly emphasizes the need for robust infrastructure to overcome healthcare challenges and improve operational efficiency. She also highlights innovative AI applications in imaging and sensor technology, along with the importance of addressing privacy and regulatory hurdles for AI agents in the industry.

In this talk, Dean Carignan, Partner Program Manager at Microsoft, delves into the company's Responsible AI journey. He shares insights from his upcoming book, emphasizing principles like fairness, reliability, and transparency. Dean explains why these pillars are crucial for ethical AI deployment and offers valuable strategies for effective AI implementation. He highlights the need for collaboration among stakeholders and advocates for clear guidelines to ensure safe innovation, all while navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Eric Wilson, Director of Internal Audit and Chief Audit Executive at Gulfport Energy, shares his expertise in navigating the evolving landscape of audits in heavy industries. He discusses the critical role of AI in reshaping auditing practices, urging auditors to adapt to technological advancements while managing risks. Eric highlights the importance of collaboration between teams to tackle market volatility and the shift from deterministic to probabilistic auditing methods. He emphasizes a controlled approach to integrating AI for better decision-making in the oil and gas sector.

In this discussion, Jennifer Sieber, the Global Head of Procurement for Systems and Insights at Gilead Sciences, shares her expertise in navigating the complexities of global procurement. She emphasizes the importance of data integrity and integration as foundational for efficient operations. Jennifer highlights innovative strategies like data cleansing and the creation of a data lake. She also discusses leveraging AI for better data visualization, transforming procurement from a cost center into a strategic asset, and the essential role of collaboration across organizational functions.

Saurin Patel, Digital Transformation & Analytics Lead at Symrise AG, shares insights from his extensive experience in the flavorful world of F&B procurement. He discusses the intricate challenges of digital transformation, including managing suppliers and optimizing inventory amid geopolitical tensions. Patel emphasizes the vital role of accurate forecasting and how data management, enhanced by AI, is crucial for operational efficiency. The importance of evolving procurement strategies to maintain competitiveness in a rapidly changing landscape is also highlighted.

Mark Surman, President of the Mozilla Foundation, dives into the critical topics of privacy and security in the era of generative AI. He discusses the evolution of privacy from basic data protection to complex ethical challenges and consumer trust issues. Mark emphasizes the necessity for businesses to implement ethical data practices and transparent governance, especially with new regulations on the horizon. He also highlights the role of leadership in fostering a culture that values data privacy as technologies advance.

Patrick Simonnet, Chief Audit Executive at Bank of China's US operations, expertly navigates the nuances of financial risk management. He reveals how generative AI enhances audit workflows and fortifies cybersecurity against modern threats. Patrick emphasizes the vital merger of data science and traditional auditing skills for future auditors. The discussion also highlights rising cyber threats, the transformative role of AI in risk management practices, and the evolving responsibilities of financial professionals in a tech-driven environment.

Joe Gelman, Platform Marketing Manager at Riskified, dives into the fast-evolving world of fraud prevention in retail and eCommerce. He discusses the shift in consumer behavior post-pandemic, revealing how liberal return policies can attract policy abuse. Joe differentiates between policy abuse and organized fraud, highlighting complex challenges that retailers face as online shopping surges. With holiday spending projected at $240 billion, he stresses the need for strategic risk management to safeguard businesses while keeping customer experience in mind.

Juan Lavista Ferres, Corporate Vice President and Chief Data Scientist at Microsoft, dives into securing executive buy-in for AI projects that prioritize social good. He discusses the significance of clear communication and starting with small, impactful initiatives. Juan highlights criteria for selecting projects with high societal benefits while addressing misconceptions about AI's role in solving complex issues. He emphasizes understanding AI's limitations and the importance of aligning initiatives with core business values to drive sustainable success.