Where do we find common ground in a world that separates us by algorithms, where writers spend more time interacting with A.I. than human beings?
Is creativity just a quaint luxury in the digital economy?
Driss Temsamani, Head of Digital, Citi, embodies the answers to these questions of connection.
Ahead of his upcoming fireside talk Maximizing Value, Minimizing Risk: Implementing A.I. in High-Stakes Industries, he connected with Gary Kalaci, Alexa Translations CEO and host of the business podcast “Firing On All Syllables”.
Their discussion touched on everything from Temsamani's unique career journey, to the crucial role of human connections in business, and the transformative impact of A.I. on society and the economy.
Compelling Takeaways
- Embrace the intersection of creativity and technology to drive innovation in business
- Prioritize human connections and relationship-building, even as digital transformation accelerates.
- Prepare for a future where A.I. and digital twins augment human capabilities, focusing on developing skills that complement these technologies.
Key Insights
1. The Artistic Side of Technology
Driss Temsamani's journey into the digital world was shaped by his artistic inclinations, challenging the notion that technology and creativity are mutually exclusive. His experience highlights the importance of embracing diverse perspectives in the tech industry.
"I had a lot of artistic tendencies…I would say I had a creative side that was not understood in the society where I grew up," Temsamani reflects. This creative approach to technology has been instrumental in his success in the digital banking sector.
2. Preserving Human Connections in a Digital Age
Despite rapid technological advancements, Temsamani emphasizes the enduring importance of human connections in business. He argues that building relationships and fostering understanding remain crucial for successful collaboration and progress.
"One thing that doesn't change is the human connection…building those relationships…connecting one with another," Temsamani asserts. He stresses the need to maintain these fundamental values even as we delve deeper into the digital economy.
3. The Future of Business with A.I. and Digital Twins
Temsamani paints an intriguing picture of the future, where A.I. and digital twins could significantly augment workforce capabilities and increase productivity. He envisions a world where digital assistants handle administrative tasks, freeing up time for creativity and innovation.
"Imagine if you could augment yourself with intelligence to handle all of it… You could actually have a better version of me," Temsamani explains. He predicts that these technologies will unlock new levels of creativity and productivity in the business world.
Quotable Moments
"Every business person should have curiosity."
"The next five years will have change… akin to the last 50 years combined just because of the exponential [technological] evolution."
The full discussion between Driss and Gary on "Firing on All Syllables™" offers invaluable insights for business leaders navigating the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how to balance technological innovation with the enduring importance of human relationships in business.
If you enjoyed hearing Driss’s insights on A.I., and the changing role it plays within business, you’ll want to tune into his fireside chat Maximizing Value, Minimizing Risk: Implementing A.I. in High-Stakes Industries on Tuesday July 15th, 2025.
