SPONSOR Keynote: With great AI, comes great responsibility

AI is transforming the way we plan, execute, and scale our work - but it will never replace the creativity, judgement, and leadership that only humans can bring. In this keynote, we will explore how project and portfolio managers can be empowered to embrace automation and AI as a powerful catalyst for innovation. The future of project leadership isn’t about choosing between humanity and technology, it’s about strategically combining the strengths of both to create a sum greater than the whole; Data Insights with Decision Making, Efficiency with Empathy, Validation with Vision. As thought leaders within our own organizations we shouldn’t be adapting to the change, we should be driving it, and the opportunities to lead with impact in the AI era are here.

Learning goals summary:

Attendees should learn the following by attending the session:

1. Understand the role that AI is already playing in Project Management, and what else is on the horizon.
2. Learn how the irreplaceable human skills involved in Project Management can be augmented with AI.
3. Develop a mindset of strategic partnership with AI, ensuring technology serves as a catalyst for human contribution. 

Biography

James spent nearly a decade managing programs in the UK high-tech manufacturing industry, where he observed how recurring challenges in team collaboration limited growth, productivity, and engagement. Today, as a Solutions Engineer at Smartsheet, he advises enterprise organizations on unlocking the tangible value of collaboration and automation. James specializes in translating complex technical concepts into practical, user-driven insights that drive sustainable change. His passion lies in helping teams work smarter, not harder, and empowering professionals to deliver greater impact with clarity and confidence.

LinkedIn profile: James Ashby