Search firms scout for AI, digital specialist board members

India’s leading search firms are hunting for board members with expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation to expand their business. Top executive search firms said that companies are not keen on candidates who are relying solely on their association with established boards.

- Devina Sengupta

According to headhunters, the push for technology-related skill sets is because companies know that AI is here to stay. “They are looking at leveraging it to drive competitive advantage while understanding and managing its risks (such as reliability, legal, compliance, security and privacy)," said Pankaj Arora, the managing director of search firm Russell Reynolds Associates.

Asset management firms, conglomerates, edtech and consumer companies are looking for board members with advanced technology skills. While search firms are given the mandates for independent directors, many are consulted for direct nominees with technological prowess and have the management’s vote.