Digital & Data Tech Bp Manager

Through this article, Roberto Tovar Arellano, Digital & Data Tech BP Manager, explores the evolving role of emerging technologies in business transformation. He discusses the strategic implementation of AI, cloud computing, and low-code automation, the key factors for scaling AI and automation, and the importance of balancing automation with human expertise to build a future-ready workforce. He also offers insights for CXOs on integrating new technologies effectively, emphasizing governance, innovation, and long-term adaptability. He highlights how organizations can harness technology to drive sustainable growth and navigate future challenges.

A Journey Through Digital Transformation: From Manufacturing To Strategic Tech Leadership

I initiated my career at the GE manufacturing site, leading initiatives to optimize operations through robotics, IoT, and BI. Then I joined 3M, focused on Digital Transformation in Customer Operations, Treasury, and Credit & Collections, applying Lean Six Sigma methodologies and emerging tech like RPAs, cloud computing, and BI analytics. Then, I joined Unilever as IT BP for Digital Supply Chain initiatives, managing hyper-automation, RF technologies, machine learning, and AI-based tools. Finally, I joined GSK as Tech BP Manager, driving innovation through an emerging technologies portfolio and serving as the strategic "bridge" between business units and Tech.

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Scaling AI And Automation: Key Factors For Long-Term Success

In my opinion, for AI and automation projects to successfully scale, several key factors must be considered:

1. Proven business value in the initial pilots: Invest time in selecting impactful use cases that align with the organization's strategy. Define clear process, scope, and metrics to demonstrate the benefits generated from initial pilots

 Invest In Upskilling And Reskilling Programs That Cultivate Essential Human Skills Technology Cannot Replicate, Such As Relationship Building, Negotiation, And Creative Problemsolving. Mainly Focus On Those Identified ‘Human Added Value Tasks 

2. Organizational maturity: Through data governance, ensure process standardization for replicability and access to quality data. If no standard process exists across the regions, collaborate with the business to establish a "best practice standard process."

3. Digital ecosystem alignment: Understand the organization's digital ecosystem setup and align with key tech stakeholders early to determine the best integration approach for new technologies. Avoid integrating new technologies that will not be compatible with your ecosystem.

4. Key stakeholder sponsorship: Secure robust leadership support to navigate implementation and expansion challenges. 5. Early risk management: Identify potential impacts and develop risk assessment and mitigation plans, considering compliance, industry regulations, and ethical AI usage guidelines.

The Most Transformative Technologies In Business Today: Cloud, Low-Code Automation, And AI

I believe Cloud computing, low-code automation, and AI (particularly Generative AI and Machine Learning) are currently having the most transformative impact on business operations.

Cloud computing enables organizations to quickly deploy and scale IT infrastructure, providing agility and flexibility. Low-code automation empowers non-technical users to develop custom solutions, increasing efficiency and productivity rapidly. AI technologies like Generative AI and Machine Learning allow organizations to leverage data insights, uncover new opportunities, and drive innovation.

However, proper implementation and solid data management practices are essential to unlock the full potential of any of these technologies.

Building A Future-Ready Workforce: Balancing Automation And Human Expertise

To create a future-ready workforce, organizations should balance automation and talent development by:

1. Strategic implementation of emerging technologies: Identifythe processes and key tasks where human-added value is core to your organization. Then, identify all the processes that distract this human added value; those are the processes where organizations should invest in emerging technologies like automation and AI.

2. Talent development focused on key human skills: Invest in upskilling and reskilling programs that cultivate essential human skills technology cannot replicate, such as relationship building, negotiation, and creative problem-solving. Mainly focus on those identified “human added value tasks.”

By leveraging technology and human expertise, organizations can foster a competent and adaptable workforce that drives innovation and navigates future challenges.

Key Considerations For Cxos Integrating Emerging Technologies: Strategy, Innovation, And Governance

For CXOs integrating emerging Tech (like AI, IoT, or RPA), I recommend:

1. Focus on strategic implementation and value creation: Identify processes where these technologies can deliver significant benefits aligned with business objectives.

2. Conduct thorough assessments and pilot projects to validate potential impact and feasibility.

3. Foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning: Encourage employees to embrace new technologies and provide necessary training and support.

4. Establish strong governance frameworks and ethical guidelines: Ensure compliance with regulations and industry standards for data privacy, security, and ethical usage.

5. Approach integration as an ongoing journey: Remain agile and adaptable, fostering continuous improvement and learning from initial implementations.