On January 21, 2025, Mercer’s Global Transformation Leader Ravin Jesuthasan, Oliver Wyman’s Chief Knowledge Officer Ana Kreacic, and leaders from diverse industries gathered for an insightful breakfast discussion in Davos. The conversation focused on pressing themes such as transformation, driving sustainable growth and the impact of technology—particularly artificial intelligence (AI)—on business practices. 

Our distinguished speakers shared their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, offering a glimpse into the future of resilient businesses. Here are some of the key takeaways:

• AI is advancing beyond small-scale experiments in various departments, with companies now focusing on implementing AI on a larger scale. To succeed in this transition, organizations need strategies that engage and motivate employees, showing how AI can lead to better solutions for clients and enhance job satisfaction. Connecting with employees on an emotional level, not just a logical one, is essential.

• When it comes to transformation, it’s crucial to start by asking why change is necessary so you can bring all your stakeholders along on the journey—rather than jumping straight into what needs to change and how. Leaders should encourage their teams to think creatively about improving their work processes. Transforming for growth should empower everyone, especially those on the front lines.

• Focusing on client outcomes can significantly enhance the effectiveness of transformation initiatives. By aligning changes with the organization’s mission and client needs, employees are more likely to feel connected to the process. This alignment drives engagement and ensures that the changes made are relevant and impactful.

• Continuous learning has become more important than ever. A recent World Economic Forum report suggests that 40% of workers’ skills could be outdated in the next five years. It’s not just about acquiring new skills; it’s about learning how to learn so the workforce can continue to grow and stay relevant even as AI radically reshapes work. Creating environments that support employee growth and adaptability is vital.

• Leadership alignment plays a crucial role in effective transformation. Leaders must communicate openly about the organization’s challenges and priorities. When leaders work collaboratively, it fosters a culture of trust and empowers teams to tackle issues head-on.

As we move forward, the lessons learned from this event will be instrumental in shaping strategies that embrace innovation, foster collaboration, and prioritize the development of a skilled and adaptable workforce that can fully participate in an AI-augmented operating system (AOS). Together, we can navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead in this rapidly changing world.