In this episode of the ServiceNow UK & I Executive Circle Podcast, host Kat Finch sits down with Rob Barnes, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at ASDA, for an insightful conversation about the retailer's ambitious digital transformation journey.

Rob shares his experience transitioning from consultancy at Accenture to in-house roles at Marks & Spencer and ASDA, highlighting key lessons from both worlds. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at ASDA’s large-scale technology overhaul following its separation from Walmart—one of the most significant transformations in modern retail history.

The discussion also explores the role of AI in shaping the future of retail, from improving customer service and supply chain optimization to enhancing in-store experiences and cybersecurity. Rob addresses the long-standing debate on the "death of the high street," arguing that physical stores remain integral to retail and discussing how AI and automation can drive greater efficiency across both online and brick-and-mortar shopping experiences.

Whether you're in retail, technology, or business leadership, this episode offers valuable insights into digital innovation, AI’s growing impact, and how retailers can stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of technology, retail, and digital transformation!

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In this episode of the ServiceNow EXECUTIVE CIRCLE Podcast, we speak with Dr. Laurence Ampofo, Practice Lead of Vodafone’s AI Transformation Office. Ampofo discusses the telco giant’s bold approach to integrating AI into its operations and customer experiences, highlighting initiatives like "TOBi," the AI-powered super-agent, which is enhancing customer service and internal workflows.

The conversation delves into how generative AI is revolutionising connectivity and productivity while addressing the challenges of operating in a highly regulated industry. Ampofo emphasizes balancing short-term efficiencies with long-term strategies, ensuring AI becomes an intuitive part of organisational transformation.

Listeners are treated to visionary insights on AI’s potential to map out optimised workflows, improve employee experiences, and uncover hidden business value. From transforming telco operations to reimagining workplace productivity and sustainability, this episode is a must-listen for executives navigating the evolving AI landscape.

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In the fourth and final episode of our mini-series, Adam Spearing, Head of AI Innovation for EMEA at ServiceNow, explores the transformative potential of agentic AI. Adam breaks down the concept of AI systems communicating and collaborating, enabling organisations to move from reactive operations to predictive, streamlined processes.

Highlighting real-world applications, Adam discusses how agentic AI and tools like Knowledge Graphs can personalise employee experiences, optimise resource allocation, and identify unknown inefficiencies. He emphasises the critical role of governance, strategy, and employee empowerment in unlocking AI’s potential, while also addressing the challenges of integrating AI across a multigenerational workforce.

With a focus on fostering innovation from all levels of an organisation, this episode is an essential listen for executives looking to capitalise on AI-driven transformation and prepare for the future of work in 2025 and beyond.

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