Empowering the Future: Data, AI, and Upskilling in the Modern Workplace
This is an in-person event
AI and data are already deeply embedded in our day-to-day work – from how we make decisions to how we collaborate, hire, and grow. But with all the change comes a lot of questions: What does this mean for our roles? How do we keep up? And how do we make sure the future of work is inclusive, not exclusive?
This WomenWise x Bayer Consumer Health collaboration brings together professionals from different industries and disciplines to explore what’s really happening at the intersection of data, AI, and upskilling.
We’ll talk honestly about the shifts we’re seeing - in job expectations, in the skills we need, and in how we support one another to adapt. Whether you're excited by new tech or feeling uncertain about what it means for your career or for your industry, this session is designed to help you make sense of it all and find practical steps forward.
🗓️ Agenda:
🔹 Welcome & Opening Remarks (5 mins)
🔹 Keynote: “AI, Data, and the Future of Work – Shall We Fear What’s Ahead?” (15–20 mins)
A thought-provoking session on:
• What AI is really changing in regulated industries
• The pressure – and opportunity – to keep learning
• How job descriptions are evolving (and what that means for you)
• Why we need to talk about inclusion in the AI space
• Lessons learned from working at the data/tech intersection – what’s helped, what’s been hard, and what’s next
🔹 Panel Discussion: “Upskilling for a Data-Driven Future” (35–45 mins)
A candid conversation with professionals on:
• How to navigate constant change and find learning opportunities that actually stick
• Making data and AI feel accessible, not intimidating
• Supporting in shaping tech-driven futures
• Why reskilling isn’t just a “tech” issue – it’s a team and culture issue too
• How to avoid the risks of narrow thinking in AI design and adoption
🔹 Audience Q&A (10–15 mins)
🔹 Networking & Close (15–20 mins)
Keynote Speaker:
Rachael Hays, Transformation Director - Definia
Experienced Transformation Director with a track record of leading and advising on complex, strategic change programmes across diverse industries.
I specialise in designing customer-centric operating models, building and delivering transformation roadmaps and enabling inclusive, strategic and values-aligned growth. With a background in technology-enabled change, I bring a strong analytical foundation, but what drives me is shaping strategy that creates genuine impact; improving customer experience, elevating organisational culture, optimising operations and embedding DEI into the fabric of how companies work.
Passionate about learning, integrity and creating positive change, I’m now focused on working with organisations what value people as much as performance – and that want to transform, not just what they do, but how and why they do it.
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Panellists:
George Pawlett, Head of Business Insights & Analytics (EU North) at Bayer
Frances Erasmus, Product Director (UK & Global) at Annalect (part of Omnicom Media Group)
UK & Global Product Director at Annalect (Omnicom Media Group), where I lead the development of next-gen martech solutions that shape how brands plan, activate, and measure in a digital world. I’ve co-created tools with partners like Meta, Google, Amazon, and TikTok, but what excites me most is building inclusive, user-centric teams and reimagining how technology can unlock creativity and smarter ways of working for our users.
Sam Matthew, Director - Industry Lead (UK Energy and Resources) at Microsoft
Isabel Edkins, Inclusive Tech / AI advocate
Isabel has worked in tech for 6 years as a Management Consultant, Innovation Director and currently works at Google DeepMind. She brings with her a deep passion for women in tech, mentoring and inclusive and ethical AI. She will be speaking on behalf of her own personal experiences in the world of AI and Tech, and not representing the opinions of Google
Moderated by:
Harvi Johal, Head of Data at Wildbrain
Hosted by:
Marta Bukala, Head of Digital UK&I - Consumer Health Brands, Bayer
Kalina Tomova, Founder and Global Lead, WomenWise
Spaces are limited, please book your free ticket to reserve your space.