On May 5, 2024, during a fireside chat hosted by CLO Exchange, Carlos Guerra, SVP of HR at Owens & Minor, and Nirvano Brans, CRO of GrowthSpace, delved into the nuanced integration of artificial intelligence (AI) within human resources. The conversation highlighted the challenges and opportunities of blending AI with human-driven processes in talent management. Here are the 5 key takeaways from their discussion:
1. Embracing AI to enhance talent management
Carlos Guerra shared insights into how Owens & Minor is leveraging AI to refine talent management strategies. He emphasized the value of AI in providing rapid access to critical data, which supports more informed decision-making. “What excites me is that you have access to data faster… it’s all about speed. It’s all about finding ways to be more productive,” Carlos explained. This approach has enabled Owens & Minor to address complex challenges more efficiently, benefiting from AI’s ability to quickly analyze and interpret large data sets.
2. The Human element in AI implementation
Despite the advantages of AI, Carlos highlighted the importance of maintaining a human touch within HR processes. He stressed that AI should complement, not replace, human interactions, especially in areas like employee support and management. “It can be scary because technically at some point, maybe AI is gonna replace me… Finding the balance I think is key,” Carlos stated. This balance is crucial in ensuring that technology enhances rather than detracts from the human aspects of HR.
3. Challenges of AI integration
The transition to AI-driven processes is not without its challenges. Carlos discussed the complexities of implementing AI in a company like Owens & Minor, which operates in the highly regulated healthcare industry. He shared his experiences of needing to adapt strategies from past roles in different sectors, emphasizing that “you cannot just apply what you learn from a different company and just apply to the next one. You have to be able to learn and you have to be able to maybe flex.”
4. Practical benefits of AI in HR
Carlos provided concrete examples of how AI has transformed HR operations at Owens & Minor, particularly through their partnership with Growthapace. One significant area where AI has made an impact is in talent development and attrition management. Carlos explained how the collaboration with Growthspace allows for a more targeted approach to employee development: “Actually partnering with Growthspace has been… a game changer because I have access to data quicker and I have access to recommendations and using the technology that you guys use with AI, it just helps me to be more effective in my role.”
5. Future directions for AI in HR
Looking ahead, Carlos and Nirvano discussed the potential for AI to further transform HR practices. They talked about the ongoing need to evaluate the effectiveness of AI tools and to ensure they are aligned with the company’s strategic goals. As AI technology continues to evolve, so too will its applications in improving organizational outcomes.
Summary
The fireside chat with Carlos Guerra and Nirvano Brans offered valuable insights into the integration of AI within HR functions at Owens & Minor. As companies navigate the complexities of modern HR challenges, the thoughtful application of AI, balanced with a strong human focus, will be critical to their success. This conversation underscores the importance of technology in enhancing but not replacing the human elements that are fundamental to effective human resource management.
For a deeper dive into the conversation, watch the full video here:
