Every week, I’m in rooms and calls with CPOs, HR innovators, and AI strategists, talking about what it really takes to design an AI-powered workforce.
One thing is clear: the next era of work is where AI leaders and HR leaders work together, not in silos.
Here are six standout quotes from recent conversations that capture exactly how leaders are thinking (and feeling) about this shift right now.
1. Skills are out. Tasks are in.
“Skills is not a priority in the business. If AI is automating tasks, not skills, I want to know what is all the work — and where is the actual AI potential of our workforce?”
The conversation is shifting from what skills we have to what work we’re doing, and how AI changes that picture.
2. Job architecture can’t be static anymore.
“If you’re taking 60% of a job out because of AI and you don’t update that anywhere… you’re hiring and paying for a world that no longer exists.”
Every AI-driven change to tasks also changes the role — and the architecture needs to evolve with it.
3. HR + IT = the new power alliance.
“This is where HR and IT are really becoming best friends… We prioritize AI opportunities based on the highest value for the company — and link it directly into the work architecture.”
When HR brings the “people lens” and IT brings the “automation lens,” you get transformation that’s both effective and sustainable.
4. AI in HR isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s the front line.
“This is not an afterthought. This is very much… pushing this to the front and center for everyone to be thinking about.”
HR leaders aren’t waiting for permission to experiment with AI — they’re becoming the testbed for organisation-wide adoption.
5. The story that wins? Show the dollars and the roadmap.
“The connecting back to the dollar saved — that is a powerful story… Here’s how you literally begin. These are the tasks you can move to AI first.”
Boards and exec teams want to know the value of AI, not just the tech. Show them the financial upside and a clear starting point.
6. The next 12 months will redefine jobs entirely.
“Within the next 12 months, we’re going to be into end-to-end processes… That’s when you’re going to see full job transformation.”
Leaders who prepare for this shift now will be ready to pivot talent, redesign roles, and avoid scrambling when the change hits.
Siobhan 💜
