”AI is a tool, not a decision maker.”

In this conversation, Mark Gilham, a VP of Global Advisory shares insights on the importance of prioritizing people and processes over technology in organisations. He emphasises the need for curiosity in leadership, understanding business context, and fostering relationships with suppliers and team members. Mark discusses the distinction between strategy and operations, the human element in technology adoption, and the value of an MBA in enhancing leadership skills. He also addresses the challenges of decision-making in investments and the role of AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human judgment.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating AI and Organizational Change

03:32 The Importance of People in Technology Adoption

05:46 Leadership Decisions: Mass Rollouts vs. Nurtured Approaches

07:40 Understanding Business Context and Curiosity

10:33 Supplier Relationships and Sustainable Partnerships

13:08 Strategy vs. Operations: Defining the Difference

16:10 The Role of CFOs in Influencing Business Decisions

19:06 Balancing Technology and Human Resources

22:01 The Value of Measurement in Business Strategy

25:08 Building Respect and Trust as a Leader

28:14 Encouraging Ideas from Frontline Employees

31:05 Navigating Investment Decisions and Sunk Costs

34:06 Lessons from an MBA: Soft Skills and Corporate Culture

36:33 AI as a Tool: Productivity vs. Strategy

39:00 Advice for Future Generations