Balancing fresh talent with experienced experts is key to AI success

Sumit Duttagupta, CIO of Haldia Petrochemicals, shares insights on driving Al-led innovation through collaboration, inclusivity, and measurable ROI.

- Jatinder Singh and Praneeta

AS AI moves from proof-of-concept to large-scale deployment, CIOs are tasked with a multifaceted challenge: integrating advanced technologies while managing workforce transitions, budget constraints, and operational efficiency. AI's potential extends beyond automation—it is reshaping industries through predictive analytics, digital twins, and real-time decision-making. However, its true impact lies in how seamlessly organizations embed AI within a people-centric framework.

In an exclusive interaction with CIO&Leader, Sumit Duttagupta, CIO of Haldia Petrochemicals, shares his insights on driving AI-led innovation while fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and measurable ROI. From tackling legacy system integration to leveraging AI for demand forecasting and plant reliability, he outlines the strategic roadmap for AI implementation in 2025.

Sumit is a seasoned technology leader with a wealth of experience in senior leadership roles, including Group CIO, VP, and Head of IT. In his current role, he leads Haldia Petrochemicals' digital transformation initiatives, emphasizing process optimization, automation, and the seamless integration of plant and business data. His efforts are geared towards enabling proactive, predictive, and prescriptive decision-making. Sumit is also a recipient of the prestigious 6th CIO&Leader Samman. Below are excerpts from the interview.

CIO&Leader: How do you see AI adoption evolving particularly in terms of balancing technological advancements with workforce transition and maintaining a collaborative work environment?