“AI is the key driver for reinventing business models, operational processes and managing the next generation workforce,” said Alakh Verma, Global AI thought leader, Strategic Advisor on AI & Digital Transformation at PwC.
Addressing the 24th Leadership & Human Resource Management Conference, organised by PwC, Verma highlighted the importance of AI in reshaping value chains and creating competitive advantage in a world in constant motion.
According to the expert, success does not come simply from having data, but from the ability to organise and leverage it through artificial intelligence. “Transforming fragmented data into real-time, decision-ready information is the new competitive advantage,” he explained. This applies to pricing, risk management, supply chains, customer experiences, and talent at work.
Alakh Verma underlined that the coexistence of AI and human intelligence requires trust as the basic currency: “AI must be explainable, accountable, and controlled. Leading organisations are creating governance frameworks that cover issues of ethics, bias, security, and regulatory compliance, while upskilling staff so that people remain at the center of the process and accountable for decisions.”
According to Verman, the AI revolution is not just about automating tasks but also about redesigning entire value chains. “Examples include predictive and autonomous management of complex global supply chains, risk detection in treasury and finance, and intelligent functions in tax, audit and compliance,” he said. Verma emphasised that the benefits come from the connected use of AI across functions and geographies, not from isolated pilots.
Alakh Verma also spoke about Digital Twins and Agentic AI applications in shipping, highlighting benefits such as predictive ship maintenance, energy and emissions optimisation, crew training and safety at sea. The immediate benefits include fuel savings, early detection of faults, extended ship lifespan and more efficient port operations.
The speaker concluded that integrating artificial intelligence into every organisation's strategy transforms data and technology into real value, strengthens resilience, and allows organisations to respond dynamically in a world of continuous transformation.
(Source: InBusinessNews)
