Artificial intelligence and automation are fundamentally changing the way organizations and their employees work.
The 24th Leadership & Talent Management Conference hosted by PwC highlighted the need to rethink the skills needed for future jobs and invest in developing continuous learning for staff. Adaptability and flexibility are becoming key traits for staying competitive, while leadership is needed to guide teams in a constantly changing environment.
The panel discussion, “Humans at the Wheel: Redefining Work in an AI-Driven Future,” focused on how technology is transforming jobs, skills, and organizational structures. We provided practical strategies for closing the skills gap and building adaptability into your recruitment and development processes.
Philippos Soceiros, CEO and Chairman of PwC Cyprus, highlighted the increasing pressure on leadership in an ever-changing environment, saying, “Organizations must constantly reinvent themselves as start-ups develop faster and more cost-effective ways of operating. If we don’t adapt, the entire business is at risk, both in terms of competitiveness and relevance.” Sosilos emphasized that artificial intelligence, such as ChatGPT and other generative AI tools, is rapidly changing the way we work and is a tool that improves productivity and decision-making capabilities.
Chrysostomos Papavasiliou, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Island Oil Holdings, highlighted the transformation of the shipping industry, saying: “Ships have evolved from wooden construction to high-tech and become autonomous. Ships now operate as floating offices with 24-hour connectivity, and the office systems and the ship’s office systems are fully integrated.” He added that integrating AI tools into the company’s systems has resulted in enhanced collaboration, productivity and team training, with great results. Technology acts as a tool to support people and businesses.
Philippos Manalis, head of Cyprus and Middle East Wealth Solutions at Aon, put the demographic challenge in the context of technological change: “Over the next 30 years, we will experience the greatest demographic change in history. The proportion of workers over the age of 65 in most developed countries will double, and around 50% of children born in 2007 will be over 100.” He emphasized that human resources managers will need to adapt their talent strategies and compensation programs, while artificial intelligence can provide personalized experiences, especially for Gen Z employees, and improve engagement and productivity.
Christos Onoufrio, CEO of Odyssey Cybersecurity, noted that cyber risk should be considered as a business risk. “When a cyberattack disrupts a business, it impacts viability and the entire business model. Organizations need to create a comprehensive cybersecurity program that integrates technology, processes, and guidance.” Proactive cyber risk management ensures your business and its teams are protected.
The discussion was moderated by Cleo Papadopoulou, Head of Connected Tax Compliance Management Services, Chief Learning Officer and Chief I&D Officer at PwC Cyprus.
(Source: InBusinessNews)
