Retail and CPG industries are in constant states of flux, propelled by changing consumer preferences, emerging technologies and market trends. Many industry insiders believe that early adopters of Generative AI stand to gain significant advantages. For leading organisations, the question has shifted from 'why' to 'when' and 'how' to effectively implement and scale GenAI initiatives. At a recent dinner and discussion for Chief Disruptor members, run in partnership with Cognizant and Microsoft, industry leaders gathered to explore the transformative power of Generative AI at the enterprise level.

2023 was a year marked by rapid technological advancements and global uncertainty. As businesses grappled with the challenges posed by emerging technologies like generative AI and navigated the complexities of volatile economies and disrupted supply chains, the need for adaptability and innovation became more apparent than ever.

We are all aware of the importance of embracing sustainable practices, so why is the tanker not changing direction fast enough? Organisations are reporting positive returns for their ESG initiatives, however the progress of change is still slow. It’s driving a cultural change to embrace sustainable practices, and embed sustainability into the core values and operations, then translating these plans into actionable strategies that will create meaningful impact.

In the face of climate change and resource constraints, businesses must adopt innovative thinking and operational approaches. The urgency of ESG action necessitates a strategic shift. Meaningful progress in ESG requires extensive connections and communications across a broader ecosystem, involving partners, suppliers and consumers. Despite widespread calls for action, many business leaders struggle to expand their influence from strategy to execution, possibly due to the perceived enormity of the task.

In the world of AI and Defence, the Defence AI Centre (DAIC) is leading the charge, fostering collaboration between government, industry, academia, and allies for the strategic advantage of the UK Armed Forces. The recent industry engagement day on 27 November, DAIC Connect provided a platform for representatives from various AI companies with a Defence focus to come together and discuss the latest plans and innovations in the field.

In today's rapidly changing world, one thing remains constant - the need for security. So how can the UK’s defence industry defend against cyber security threats? With defence supply chain vulnerabilities identified as a key target, how can it be defended successfully?

How are C-level technology and information leaders navigating increasingly choppy and murky waters? Is a new playbook emerging for demonstrating top-and-bottom-line benefits from technology investments? And what new paradigms are developing to balance profitability with purpose?

How can CIOs stay on the path to net zero while also dealing with market volatilities, digital transformation, and rising inflationary pressures?

Hiring new talent is no longer just about what the employees can offer, but what value the organisation can provide in return. As our State of Recovery Report found, “hiring new talent” to be the top initiative for organisational growth. Mike Miller, the Director of Talent Acquisition at Chipotle has seen first-hand which strategies work best for onboarding new employees, and he relishes crafting the people experience at the restaurant chain. We spoke with Mike to find out what the modern talent landscape looks like, and what Gen Z employees are looking for when considering a new role at Chipotle.

Our 2022 Disruptive Trends Report highlighted that augmented reality and virtual reality will become a key tool to engage audiences in the next 3 years. So how can leaders apply immersive tech as an opportunity to give customers memorable CX? Joe Williams, Head of Immersive Tech at UK publishing group LADBible, joined us at Chief Disruptor LIVE last October to give us an insight into what it really means to work in the extended reality sector, and what opportunities can be grasped across industries.