Innovation Insiders Board of Innovation

Join us as we unpack the evolving landscape of robotics and the integral role of AI in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in automation.

Together with Ulrike Tagscherer, Chief Innovation Officer at KUKA, we dive into the changing dynamics of human and robot collaboration. 

Ulrike's insights are a testament to KUKA’s forward-thinking approach, showcasing how they stay at the forefront of innovation in robotics.

Ulrike shares insights into global perspectives on innovation, diversity and leadership, highlighting sustainability, circularity, and the impact on industry. Ulrike also shares her best advice for innovations, emphasizing the importance of cultural fit, finding like-minded people, and continuous learning.

Dive into this conversation with Sean McDowell, the innovation guru behind Herman Miller's groundbreaking designs and a former creative force at Nike and Converse, who designed the Nike Air Max Plus.

Sean spills the secrets of his dynamic career, from shaping the future of sportswear to steering innovation at global events like the Beijing Olympics. 

Discover how his design philosophy, deeply rooted in problem-solving and consumer focus, has evolved with the emergence of AI. From the importance of diverse teams to the potential of AI as both a creative partner and a challenge, Sean offers a unique lens on navigating the complexities of modern design and innovation.

Listen to this episode if you're eager to peek into the mind of a design and innovation visionary who’s reshaped industries and crafted the future.

In this episode, we speak to Nespresso insights expert, Stéphane Szymerzna, about how Nespresso is using a test & learn approach to innovation – whether that’s inventing a new product for their existing line, or optimizing for sustainability.

Stéphane shares his enthusiasm for coffee and innovation, discussing the challenges of introducing new products while considering consumer adaptability. He reflects on Nespresso's growth from a market challenger to a leader, emphasizing the importance of meeting diverse consumer needs and aligning innovations with brand goals across different regions. The conversation also covers the role of AI in innovation, with Stéphane noting the balance between AI assistance and human oversight. Additionally, Stéphane speaks on Nespresso's commitment to sustainability, including their work with coffee farmers, compostable capsules, and the pursuit of B Corp certification.

In this episode, Nick Tate, Head of NEXT – Haleon’s innovation arm, shares his perspective on the success criteria for launching new products and brands in consumer healthcare.
Haleon is one of the world’s leading consumer health businesses, owning category leading brands like Nicorette, Advil, Voltaren and Sonsodyne.

Nick and Vincent discuss the impact of AI on brands and businesses. Tate emphasizes the transformation brought by generative and interactive AI, emphasizing the need for brands to be more responsive and personalized. Tate highlights the role of AI in improving back-office functions such as legal and regulatory processes, as well as creating delightful experiences for consumers. He also stresses the importance of human involvement, stating that great technology should help humans become more human and enable a symbiotic relationship between humans and machines. Tate also shares his personal journey into innovation, driven by a passion for problem-solving and creativity in business. He expresses a strong belief in the value of asking provocative questions and aligning people to solve problems in a determined way.