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Leadership and AI
During the panel discussion, Rina Joosten-Rabou (Pera), Isabel Moll (Dell Technologies), Anna van den Breemer (EY), and Maarten Lintsen (EY) emphasized one core message: AI must never replace the human core. Maarten Lintsen set the tone: “It’s not about AI versus humans—it’s about humans using AI. That distinction is crucial.” Organizations face urgent questions: What will the workforce look like in five years? What skills will matter? Can we preserve culture when algorithms guide decisions? These are not abstract concerns—they shape today’s strategy. AI accelerates processes, predicts outcomes, and personalizes experiences. But it cannot replace imagination, empathy, or ethical judgment. These human qualities are what make the difference in an AI-driven world. Isabel and Rina stressed that creativity, empathy, and authenticity remain irreplaceable, while Anna called for courageous decisions—even when they go against the algorithm: “AI can expose cultural gaps and reduce bias, but values must remain human. Leadership is key: technology only works when leaders create safe environments and clearly communicate the need for change.” Isabel envisioned a future where humans and AI collaborate as partners. By automating repetitive tasks, space is created for reflection, creativity, and innovation—provided organizations invest in new skills and a culture of continuous learning.
ROI and adoption from hype to value
Many organizations struggle with the question: where is my return on investment? Joe Depa, EY’s Global Innovation Leader, offered three criteria to stay focused: value, scalability, and differentiation. Adoption is equally critical: “No one has ever said they overinvested in training. Training must be dynamic, personalized, and practical—not a mandatory course, but a relevant and enjoyable experience.”