Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is poised to be integrated into your business operations in the coming years, if it hasn’t already been implemented.
The era of 5G and the Internet of Things is experiencing a resurgence, driven by AI advancements.
Distinctive Attribute
AI is now a fundamental component of businesses worldwide, encompassing machine learning, analytics, chatbots, and cognitive tools. The oversight of these solutions will necessitate the involvement of a senior executive within the organization.
What are the essential qualities that define a successful AI leader?
Five industry experts outline the skills that will distinguish individuals in this role.
1. Innovative
According to Mukul Agrawal, the Director of Technology at Vistaprint, the future’s leading AI executives will not conform to traditional IT leadership roles.
He asserts, “These roles will be vastly different.” “You must approach things from a deeply analytical perspective.” An AI director will require less formality than a typical engineering director.
Agrawal emphasizes that prospective AI leaders must have a clear vision of the future. He states, “Not just for now, but for the next five or ten years.” Moreover, they should be well-versed in these emerging domains.
Agrawal underscores that the development of AI systems is not instantaneous. While platforms like ChatGPT and Orion have made significant strides recently, their evolution and enhancement occurred over several years.
He emphasizes that “the journey is lengthy.” Individuals in these roles must possess a strong technical acumen, patience, and a forward-looking perspective.
Neglecting this unique quality could lead to failure in your AI initiatives.
Nevertheless, Agrawal suggests that seasoned professionals with empathy, a grasp of total cost of ownership, and an eye for value creation have promising prospects.
He contends that individuals in these positions have the potential for significant success. To excel as an AI practitioner, one must embrace technological advancement.
2. Factor
Lily Haake, Head of Technology and Digital Executive Search at Harvey Nash, underscores the importance of a solid technical foundation for effective AI leaders.
She emphasizes that “a successful AI executive must possess a technical grounding that is beyond the reach of most individuals.” They should understand AI systems, machine learning, computer vision, AI algorithms, and methodologies.
However, technical expertise must be complemented by soft skills, including “exceptional business acumen, strategic thinking, opportunity identification, trend analysis, and leadership.”
Furthermore, mastering the following six skills is crucial for functioning as a proficient AI engineer.
Haake believes that one crucial trait will be indispensable: influence.
In a ZDNET interview, she explains, “This individual will need to influence their peers across all departments.”
Having these interpersonal skills and the ability to drive change without direct line management authority is vital. We’re talking about highly technical individuals with exceptional leadership capabilities.
3. Construction
Nigel Richardson, Senior Vice President & CIO Europe at PepsiCo, asserts that effective digital leaders today must grasp business operations and possess the leadership qualities to inspire internal teams.
Prospective AI leaders should understand what truly drives competitive advantage, which may involve a blend of established and innovative technologies.
In his ZDNET response, he emphasizes the importance of immersing oneself in all facets of the business.
Anticipating the future and carefully assessing the company’s trajectory are essential.
Leadership mandate: Conceptual AI can be invaluable as the landscape continues to evolve.
According to Richardson, successful leaders will be those who continuously nurture talent and strike a balance between cutting-edge technologies that deliver tangible business outcomes and the foundational capabilities needed for seamless daily operations.
To achieve this, a full embrace of modern technologies and processes is necessary to expedite the adoption of new skills. Progress in this realm is currently significant, he notes.
“We are rapidly introducing innovative features, from leveraging cloud technology across the organization to swiftly integrating AI/ML into solutions.” A critical skill will be the ability to establish robust, secure platforms that enable all teams to develop digital products.
4. Connector
Innovative ideas for digital transformation can originate from various departments, not solely IT. Lisa Diehl, Head of Customer Experience at Freshpet, envisions leveraging conceptual AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance customer service.
During a one-on-one discussion with ZDNET, she expresses her desire to integrate current practices for enhanced efficiency.
Moreover, addressing AI bias and ethics: Deciphering the intricate landscape of AI ethics
“Concerns regarding security and IT issues are well-founded. It’s essential for everyone to carefully evaluate the potential applications of AI, which is why progress is deliberate at the moment.”
Diehl is no stranger to AI-driven applications. She currently utilizes Emplifi’s AI-powered chatbot technology to provide immediate responses to customer queries, allowing staff to focus on critical consumer issues that demand a human touch.
According to her, the ability to bridge opportunities and challenges may be pivotal for success in AI leadership.
Additionally, proficiency in mathematics and business development are critical skills in the realm of AI.
She explains, “We gather extensive data on customer interactions and feedback.”
“Our development pipeline leverages this data, which is then shared with our marketing teams.” It’s crucial that the insights we gather permeate throughout our organization.
5. Holistic
Sasha Jory, CIO at insurance firm Hastings Direct, suggests that the potential AI leader will necessitate a diverse skill set.
“They must be adaptable.” The ideal candidate should possess customer experience, business acumen, and a strong rapport with colleagues.
Speaking at Snowflake’s Data Cloud World Tour in London, Jory emphasizes the importance of understanding emerging threats and opportunities in a rapidly evolving market, and how they intersect with professional roles.
Furthermore, nearly 10% of users request explicit content from AI chatbots.
“They must understand both the positive and negative aspects.” Recognizing the critical importance of AI success is essential. However, they must also comprehend the potential negative impacts of AI on stakeholders, including the company, customers, and colleagues.
According to Jory, the optimal AI leader will require more than just technical prowess: “I believe it should be someone who possesses a well-rounded skill set rather than a pure technologist.”
