Leading in an AI-First World: Mindset Shifts for CXOs and Teams

Speakers:

• Amit Srivastav: Director - Product Management
• Ekhlaque Bari: Strategy Advisor - AI and digital transformation

In this episode, Amit Srivastav and Ekhlaque Bari sit down for an honest, practical conversation on what it truly means for organisations to operate in an AI-first world. Far from the hype and abstractions, they break down the real shifts leaders need to make as AI moves from experiment to everyday business driver.

Overview

The discussion opens with a look at how AI is already redefining convenience, experience, and productivity across industries. Using relatable, everyday examples, they explore why organisations should move away from debating whether AI will replace jobs — and instead focus on building the skills to use and create AI responsibly.

The conversation then turns to leadership. CXOs today are already stretched, yet the pace of AI innovation demands new thinking. Amit and Ekhlaque reflect on the pressures leaders face: navigating constant model upgrades, avoiding pilot fatigue, and understanding how to prioritise value. They stress that AI transformation must be owned at the top, not delegated, and draw parallels with the early days of digital transformation to underline why mindset is the real differentiator.

Finally, they address the talent landscape — from young engineers unsure of where to begin, to experienced professionals worried about relevance. Their message is clear: AI literacy will soon be a basic hygiene skill, much like using Excel or email. And just as in past technology shifts, the greatest opportunities will belong to those who learn, adapt, and stay curious.

Engaging, grounded, and refreshingly candid, this episode offers a realistic lens into how AI is reshaping work, leadership, and the future of enterprise transformation.

OUR SPEAKERS

Amit Srivastav: Director - Product Management

Amit Srivastav is a Product and AI leader with 19+ years of experience driving digital transformation across BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, and the Public Sector. He specializes in Product Strategy, AI/ML, GenAI, and Agentic AI, and has built and scaled multiple AI Centers of Excellence. Amit has led global teams, delivered $100M+ transformation programs, and launched enterprise AI platforms that accelerate adoption and measurable outcomes. Known for translating deep tech into business value, he focuses on speed, scale, and impact.

Ekhlaque Bari: Strategy Advisor - AI and digital transformation

Ekhlaque Bari is an AI strategist and transformation leader with 28+ years of global experience across AI, Digital, and Lean Operations. He has led major transformations for GE, SBI Card, Max Life, Jubilant FoodWorks, and Domino’s India across Europe, the US, APAC, and India. An IIT Kharagpur and SP Jain alumnus, EB is known for simplifying AI for business leaders and driving enterprise-wide alignment. His CXO masterclasses—rated among the best at ISB and IIMs—combine clarity, practicality, and real-world impact.