During the session, the discussion focused first on the current state of AI implementation across organizations. Participants shared where they are seeing tangible progress, where pilots remain disconnected from core operations, and how expectations from boards and executive teams are evolving. While enthusiasm for AI is high, many noted that real impact still depends on disciplined use case selection, clear ownership, and measurable business outcomes rather than experimentation for its own sake.

A substantial part of the conversation centered on structural challenges, particularly around data readiness and organizational design. Leaders highlighted persistent issues with fragmented data landscapes, governance gaps, and unclear accountability models that slow down AI adoption. Looking ahead, the group explored how IT departments may need to evolve, with greater integration between technology, data, and business teams, new capability profiles within IT, and a more strategic positioning of the function as an enabler of enterprise wide value creation in an AI driven environment.