The mandate for data science leadership has undergone a seismic shift. We have moved rapidly from an era where AI was a niche curiosity to one where it sits at the centre of every strategic discussion. While this visibility offers unprecedented opportunity, it introduces a collection of new challenges. Suddenly everyone is talking our language, but are they saying the same thing? The conflation of AI, ML, GenAI and Agentic workflows reinforces the need for us to cut through hype and remain laser focused on business problems and driving value. Part strategic deep-dive and part group therapy, this session explores how to maintain technical integrity while satisfying the thirst for innovation.

• Practical tips for navigating the build versus buy debate
• How to constructively challenge a GenAI first mindset without being labeled a luddite
• Practical methods for embedding AI literacy to align stakeholder expectations.