All that AI and still no ROI? Where Talent Makes the Difference

September 18, 2025 5:30 PM

Millions are being poured into AI. Subscriptions are multiplying. Headlines shout disruption. And yet… where’s the return?

In our next web panel, we’ll ask a sharper question:

What kind of talent will actually help organisations turn AI into ROI?

Join Steve James (GM, Technology & Operations, Woolworths NZ) and Brett Roberts (Mission Ready Board member, Innovation guru and AI Factivist) in conversation with Diana Sharma (CEO, Mission Ready) as they explore:

  • Why AI adoption often stalls before delivering value
  • What new ways of working are emerging as humans and AI collaborate
  • The types of skills and mindsets employers will be searching for next
  • How career changers can position themselves to create impact in this new landscape

Expect practical insight, candid takes, and a glimpse of the most exciting changes ahead in how people and technology interact at work.

You’ll get a sharper sense of how to shape your own career around the opportunities AI is really creating.

Brett Roberts

Brett Roberts knows the tech world inside out, having held leadership roles at Microsoft, Datacom and Callaghan Innovation. Over the last 20+ years, he’s seen what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to building products, shaping customer experiences and turning big ideas into reality. He’s passionate about helping the next generation of talent understand how to thrive in a world where people and AI are reshaping the way we work.

Steve James

Steve James is GM of Technology & Operations at Woolworths NZ and one of New Zealand’s top technology leaders, ranked #6 in the 2023 CIO50 list. He’s passionate about using AI to solve real-world problems — from reducing retail crime with innovative computer vision solutions to driving sustainability through smarter supply chains.

Beyond technology, Steve is committed to inclusive leadership and shaping the next generation of tech talent.

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