The AI in Business Podcast

Xiong Liu, Director of Data Science and AI at Novartis, shares his expertise in modernizing clinical trials with AI. He discusses how AI streamlines data workflows and enhances study readiness while ensuring regulatory compliance. The conversation highlights the shift towards decentralized trials, the innovative use of AI to predict COVID-19 patient outcomes, and the transformative power of federated learning in healthcare. Liu emphasizes the importance of integrating diverse data sources and building patient trust as AI reshapes drug development.

Jiaxi Zhu, Head of Analytics & Insights at Google, dives into the critical world of data security in customer analytics. He discusses how companies can bolster data governance amidst the rise of unstructured data from sources like social media and call transcripts. Jiaxi emphasizes the need for modern data dictionaries and metadata management to ensure compliance and trace data lineage. He also highlights the unique challenges posed by regulations and the risks of personal information leaks, advocating for a zero-trust approach in data governance.

In this discussion, Chris Tapley, VP and Head of Financial Services Consulting at EPAM Systems, shares his expertise on AI adoption in banking. He highlights common obstacles like legacy systems and the need for effective data strategies. Chris emphasizes the importance of executive alignment and the role of leadership in steering AI initiatives. He also addresses fears surrounding job displacement while advocating for a balanced, customer-centric approach to AI integration. Discover how AI is set to revolutionize personalized banking experiences!

Shreyas Becker, Head of AI & Data Products at Sanofi, dives deep into the intersection of AI and life sciences. He discusses how AI tools are revolutionizing supply chains, especially during geopolitical upheaval. Shreyas highlights AI's role in optimizing drug manufacturing, identifying bottlenecks, and enhancing decision-making. He also shares insights from pandemic-driven innovations and underscores the essential balance between AI automation and human expertise in ensuring reliable medication delivery.

In this engaging discussion, Daniel Ferrante, AI Leader in R&D and Data Strategy at Deloitte, sheds light on leveraging AI to enhance efficiency in agriculture, life sciences, and materials science. He addresses the challenges organizations face in data utilization and the importance of Deloitte's Atlas framework for unifying datasets. Ferrante discusses how large language models can aid in navigating complex data landscapes and emphasizes fostering a flexible approach to ontology to drive innovation. Key insights for pharmaceutical leaders on integrating AI into drug development are also explored.

Greg Cucino, Managing Director at RoundTable Strategy Advisors, is on a mission to redefine the CFO role through AI. He discusses how AI is automating tedious finance tasks, allowing executives to concentrate on strategic planning. Emerging technologies like agentic AI are transforming financial operations and reshaping mergers and acquisitions. Cucino emphasizes the critical balance between human intuition and automated insights, arguing for ethical practices in AI to safeguard nuanced decision-making in finance.

Sidharth Ojha, Head of Process Optimization in Data and AI at AXA XL, unveils how AI is transforming the commercial insurance landscape. He discusses enhancing underwriting efficiency and portfolio decision-making through machine learning. The conversation highlights the challenges of outdated systems and compliance, the importance of data quality, and the impact of regulations like the EU AI Regulation Act. Sidharth shares strategies for scaling AI responsibly and fostering a culture of innovation within the industry.

Kandie Ibaka, Vice President and Sanctions Control Officer at Citi, shares her expertise in compliance and risk oversight within the financial sector. She discusses the challenges compliance teams face while integrating AI with legacy systems. Kandie highlights the shift from basic chatbots to advanced AI, stressing the need for human oversight. She emphasizes building a connected compliance infrastructure that balances speed and risk management, offering insights on sustainable tech investments and improving decision-making processes in financial institutions.

Nathaniel Bell, Data Management Director at Wells Fargo, specializes in risk management and enterprise automation in banking. He discusses how AI transforms risk management and compliance, balancing innovation with caution. Nathaniel highlights the shift from manual auditing to continuous processes, the need for quality data, and the importance of human oversight. He explains how simple AI systems improve efficiencies in audit workflows, while addressing the complexities of integrating AI in banking operations.

Kandie Ibaka, Vice President and Sanctions Control Officer at Citi, discusses the challenges compliance leaders face in an ever-evolving regulatory landscape. She emphasizes the shift from basic monitoring to real-time risk interpretation, highlighting the crucial role of AI and machine learning in managing sanctions compliance. Kandie also addresses the need for high-quality data integration and the collaboration between tech teams and compliance professionals, as well as the evolving skill sets necessary for navigating this complex environment.