The AI in Business Podcast

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.

In this discussion, Luke van der Waals, Demand-to-Deliver Value Stream Owner at SLB, dives into the complexities of global supply chains in the energy sector. He candidly addresses how geopolitical tensions and inflation reshape procurement strategies. Luke highlights the necessity of resilience and balancing local sourcing with global factors. He also explores how data is essential for decision-making, emphasizing technology's role in enhancing efficiency and navigating procurement challenges amid international conflicts.

Chloe Rice, Director of Global Customer Experience at Shutterstock, dives into the interplay between AI and customer interaction in media. She discusses the critical need for transparency and ethical practices in AI-generated content. Chloe highlights how specialized teams can maintain authenticity while leveraging technology to meet customer expectations. She also introduces an innovative AI tool that tackles content creation challenges in eCommerce, emphasizing the importance of balancing human creativity with technological efficiency.

In this discussion, Ermir Qeli, Head of Data Science in AI at Swiss Re, shares his expertise on scaling AI in the insurance sector. He emphasizes the importance of clean data infrastructure for legacy institutions and the transformational potential of generative AI. Ermir explores how advanced models enhance customer experiences and the shift from basic chatbots to sophisticated AI interactions. He also addresses the vital role of change management, urging early stakeholder engagement and upskilling to ensure successful AI adoption.

In this discussion, Paulo Ruy, Head of Terminal Procurement for Latin America at A.P. Moller - Maersk, delves into the complexities of global shipping amidst geopolitical conflicts like the Ukraine war. He emphasizes the need for flexible contracts and the vital role of data and AI in navigating these challenges. Paulo also highlights the importance of optimizing shipping routes and improving efficiency through technology. The conversation sheds light on how government intervention and bureaucracy can hinder progress in global procurement.

Frédéric Rivain, CTO of Dashlane, shares insights on the dynamic intersection of AI and cybersecurity. He discusses the dual-edged sword of AI, highlighting its potential to both enhance security measures and enable more advanced attacks. Rivain delves into the challenges of combating AI-fueled phishing, the trust issues surrounding passkey technology, and the need for a proactive security culture in software development. Emphasizing preparedness, he draws parallels between cybersecurity tactics and everyday safety practices.

Joining the discussion is Matthias Steinberg, CFO of Mindbridge, a pioneer in AI-powered financial solutions. He dives into the challenges financial professionals face when integrating AI, balancing innovation with accuracy. Matthias emphasizes the distinction between machine learning and generative tools, advocating for their roles in forecasting. He also discusses the importance of real-time monitoring and data integrity. Lastly, he provides insights on assessing ROI, stressing the need for a strategy that merges both short-term gains and long-term goals.

Ylan Kazi, Chief Data and AI Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield North Dakota, shares his expertise on generative AI in healthcare. He discusses the evolution of AI tools and their new challenges, urging leaders to adapt their data strategies. Kazi highlights the shift toward measurable ROI from generative AI technologies and the need for a cultural transformation in organizations. He underscores the competitive edge of embracing large language models, emphasizing their role in enhancing business efficiency and fostering innovation.

Nate Bell, Corporate Functions Business Data Leader at Wells Fargo, dives into AI's pivotal role in financial services. He discusses the importance of effective data management and the costly challenges that come with it. Nate shares insights on the misconceptions executives hold about AI's capabilities and the risks of anthropomorphizing technology. He emphasizes the need for human oversight to navigate generative AI's integration, ensuring data integrity and accurate governance in a rapidly evolving landscape.

In this discussion, Stephanie McReynolds, Vice President of Product and Portfolio Marketing at OneTrust, shares her expertise on navigating the complex landscape of AI regulations. She highlights barriers to AI adoption and the vital role of data governance. Stephanie delves into the EU AI Act, outlining its implications for global compliance standards. She also emphasizes responsible AI use and the necessity for organizations to align their policies with practices, mitigating risks while embracing innovation in the realm of data privacy.