Session Abstract

In today’s fast-evolving tech landscape, the dual forces of AI as both a catalyst for innovation and a conduit for new threats are reshaping IT delivery, management, and leadership. This dynamic environment demands not just acceleration, but a strategic transformation in IT approaches. IT departments must evolve from reactive to proactive, harnessing the power of AI-enhanced tools and AI scale approaches. These technologies are pivotal in not only embracing innovation but also in safeguarding against the emerging risks associated with AI. Join industry expert and Microsoft MVP Richard Harbridge as he unveils key tactics and strategies that drive success in this new era. Richard will guide you through practical methods to align, prioritize, and meet the escalating demands of employees, partners, and customers more effectively. This session promises not just insights but actionable steps to help you thrive amidst rapid change and heightened expectations. Who Should Attend?: - IT professionals looking to transition from reactive to proactive approaches in the era of AI. - Leaders looking to accelerate the ROI from AI while responsibly managing emerging risks. - Technology enthusiasts keen on understanding the latest AI-powered tools and proven strategies. - Employees, partners, and leaders seeking to align and prioritize their demands effectively. - Business leaders interested in leveraging AI for innovation and growth by moving beyond productivity and quality improvement. Key Topics We'll Cover: - The role of AI in driving innovation and managing emerging risks. - Strategies for IT departments to scale AI and move from reactive to proactive. - Practical methods to align, prioritize, and meet the escalating demands of employees, leaders, partners, and customers. - Actionable steps to help IT operations thrive amidst rapid change and heightened expectations. ‍ This session promises not just insights but actionable steps to help your IT operations thrive amidst rapid change and heightened expectations.

Note to event organizers

Currently my most popular requested session. Holding at 4.7/5 on average scores/feedback.

Richard Harbridge

Richard Harbridge is a Principal Industry Advisor on Microsoft 365 and ShareGate as well as a long-standing Microsoft MVP. Renowned for simplifying the complex, Richard equips IT, executives, and business leaders with three essentials: clarity about Microsoft 365’s evolving capabilities, confidence in responsibly implementing and governing new technologies, and the connections that amplify success across partners, customer communities and Microsoft itself. Over the past decades he has: • Advised 200+ enterprises on Microsoft 365 strategy, AI governance and employee experience. • Delivered 450 + keynotes, workshops and conference sessions across five continents. • Empowered millions of employees with simpler, more secure Microsoft 365 experiences, while helping partners unlock $300+ million in new revenue. • Leads CIO think tanks and employee-experience forums while serving on research and community leadership councils shaping the future of work. Whether architecting AI rollouts, moderating executive roundtables, or writing practical frameworks, Richard’s focus is unwavering: turn technology potential into lasting business impact.