The New Automation Mindset: AI + Automation + Integration

In this episode of The New Automation Mindset , Markus Zirn is joined by Aviad Almagor, VP of Technology Innovation at Trimble, to speak about how the nearly 50-year-old company is integrating predictive and generative AI into its global operations. They explore how Trimble went from using ML for infrastructure analysis to deploying GenAI-powered agents across design, product development, and inte...

In this episode of The New Automation Mindset , Markus Zirn speaks with Siroui Mushegian, CIO of Barracuda, about how to scale GenAI across your enterprise without losing control or clarity. Siroui discusses Barracuda’s agent-led transformation efforts, from a customer support bot nearing production, to AI-assisted onboarding tools in HR, to internal frameworks for guiding responsible AI experimen...

In this episode of The New Automation Mindset , Markus Zirn speaks with Helena Nimmo, CIO of IFS, about the next wave of enterprise transformation. With three decades of experience leading IT across diverse industries, Helena reflects on the evolution of digital transformation from internet and SaaS to today’s AI-powered platforms. The conversation unpacks how AI is redefining workflows, organizat...

In this episode, Markus welcomes Dominik Wittenbeck, Group CTO of SNP Group, to explore the company’s multi-decade journey from an SAP consulting service to a global automation software provider. Dominik shares insights into the challenges and inflection points that shaped SNP’s evolution, highlighting how they tackled SAP’s complexity, embraced automation, and empowered both internal teams and ex...

In this episode, Markus sits down with Michael Lebron, Head of Digital Applications and Shared Services at Canon, to discuss how Canon is integrating Generative AI into its operations through a cross-functional committee focused on intelligent automation. Drawing from his experience leading enterprise architecture and innovation initiatives, Michael shares how the committee evolved from addressing...

In this episode, Markus sits down with John Miller, VP of Consumer and Retail Solutions at AT&T, to explore how one of the world’s largest telecom companies is using AI agents and LLMs to enhance service delivery and modernize operations. John explains how his team deployed the very first GPT-style interface implemented across AT&T and how it is empowering employees throughout the organization. He...

In this episode, Markus sits down with Manish Sood, CEO, Founder, and Chairman of Reltio, to explore how enterprises can modernize their architecture through data unification, intelligent automation, and AI readiness. Drawing on Manish’s experience building cloud-native platforms and enabling data-driven transformation, they unpack the evolution of Master Data Management (MDM) and the critical nee...

In this episode, Markus sits down with Michael Heric, Senior Partner at Bain & Company and leader of Bain’s global automation capabilities, to explore how enterprise automation has evolved from traditional RPA to the era of Generative AI and intelligent agents. With 25 years of industry insight, Michael shares a compelling roadmap for leveraging automation at scale, drawing from real-world client...

In this episode, Markus Zirn, Michael Smith, and Earl Newsome discuss their collaborative work on the TechPACT, a collective initiative focused on advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech industry. The TechPACT aims to bridge the digital divide and elevate underrepresented voices in technology. Michael and Earl share how the “plus one” mindset helps members take small, daily actions...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Ramak Robinson explore the power of digital transformation through the evolution of APIs. Ramak shares how H&M built a robust integration framework with over 600 APIs and 500 events, driving the organization toward a more modern, agile IT landscape. They dive into the strategic shift toward composable and event-driven architectures, the lessons learned in fostering...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Junior Brandt explore the evolving role of enterprise architecture in today’s business landscape. Junior shares how architects are adapting to new challenges, including the shift from monolithic ERP systems to composable architecture. They discuss the impact of COVID-19, the growing need for automation tools like Workato, and how AI is reshaping the enterprise arch...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Lutz Beck explore how GenAI and data management are transforming the truck industry and boosting operational efficiency. Lutz shares his experiences from Mitsubishi Fuso to Daimler Truck, highlighting the integration of GenAI and connected technologies. They discuss the growing role of AI agents in automating business processes, improving operational efficiency, an...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Arul Arogyanathan explore the transformative power of strategic IT leadership. Arul shares how he navigated pandemic-driven disruptions since stepping into his role in 2021, driving key initiatives like modernizing systems, fostering business-IT collaboration, and implementing composable architecture and automation. They dive into the creative ways Village Roadshow...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Ilan Twig explore the intersection of organizational resilience, technology adoption, and innovation. They explore Navan’s journey and how they navigated significant challenges like COVID-19 while maintaining a user-centric approach. Ilan also highlights the transformative role of GenAI and shares insights on how organizations can harness these technologies to driv...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Steve Brodrick explore the power of data democratization and its role in driving transformation. Steve shares his journey from CFO to CTO and now CEO of Horizon Five, where he is dedicated to making data accessible and empowering teams to thrive. They discuss the importance of integrating IT and business, the challenges of scaling data-driven insights, and the pote...

In this episode, Marcus Zirn and Vladimir Lukic dive into BCG's latest report, Where’s the Value in AI?, highlighting why only a small percentage of companies are scaling AI effectively. They explore strategies for successful AI adoption, such as focusing on core workflows, optimizing operating models, and choosing fewer but deeper use cases. Vlad also discusses the challenges of data quality, the...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Sam Sena explore the intersection of IT identity archetypes, technology adoption, and organizational change management. They dive into Sam’s research on classifying employees into IT archetypes to improve system adoption, team dynamics, and address fears during tech transformations. Sam emphasizes the role of cultural identity, the human element, and leveraging inf...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Tal Seraf explore the evolution of IT, emphasizing the shift from project-based to product-focused approaches for improved efficiency and customer satisfaction. Drawing on Tal’s extensive experience at tech giants like Microsoft, Amazon, Starbucks, Meta, and now Atlassian, he shares how his diverse career has shaped his leadership style. They delve into the critica...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Rajeev Khanna discuss how to navigate the common IT challenges faced by large organizations. Rajeev shares his extensive experience across various industries, including his leadership roles at Aon, Expedia, Asurion, and UBS. They examine the complexities of systems, the need for efficiency, cost management, and overcoming organizational friction. Rajeev highlights...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Ravi Malick discuss the evolving landscape of IT leadership and the transformative power of AI. Ravi shares his journey from the energy sector to leading IT at Box, highlighting the importance of integrating business strategy with IT leadership. They explore the challenges of SaaS application sprawl and emphasize the critical need for a well-architected enterprise...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Yanni Charalambous explore the modern approach to factory automation through software-defined factories. Yanni shares insights on leveraging cloud technology, integrating digital twins for improved efficiency, and establishing their low-carbon ventures business unit. He highlights the challenges of cloud adoption, the significance of innovative technologies like ca...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Arthur Hu discuss Lenovo’s transformation from a hardware giant to an IT services leader, driven by AI and hybrid cloud technologies. Arthur shares insights on managing global supply chains during COVID-19, balancing centralized and federated IT governance, and the crucial role of cultural integration. He also emphasizes the importance of a customer-first approach...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Enver Cetin explore the game-changing potential of GenAI and digital twins in transforming business processes. They discuss how these technologies are reshaping customer interactions, automating decision-making, and redefining job roles. Enver shares real-world insights from Ciklum's Workato automation projects, emphasizing the importance of clear process mapping a...

Episode Summary In this episode, Markus Zirn and Steve Lindsey dive into the evolution and future of physical security systems. Steve discusses LVT's cutting-edge D3 system, which integrates IoT, AI, and cloud technology for proactive security, setting it apart from traditional methods. They explore how event-driven architectures enable real-time threat detection and deterrence, the importance of...

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Suresh Jaganathan explore the power of a federated delivery model, sharing insights from Suresh’s transformative work at Unilever and Roche. They discuss the benefits of this approach, like scalability, flexibility, faster time to market, and improved compliance. They highlight the importance of a product mindset and the role of federated delivery in fostering inno...