This thought-provoking talk explores the intricate balance between the march of automation and human connection, and reveals how we can adapt to a changing landscape of decision- making and engagement in the face of evolving AI technology. As we look towards a more automated, performance-oriented future of consumer engagement, it can be easy to believe there’s increasingly little room for our own ingenuity, skills and imagination.

Yet as we integrate more technology into our work and our lives, it is precisely our ability to step back and understand others at a more meaningful level that will enable us to thrive. In a quantified world, as marketing transforms from mass media to hyper-personalized, algorithmically targeted content, it’s easy to forget that behind each data point (and tiny screen) is a real person searching for moments of joy and belonging.