How Interim Talent Accelerates AI Transformation

Since AI tools like ChatGPT emerged in 2022, businesses have been racing to understand how these technologies help them work smarter, innovate faster, and grow. But while AI promises opportunities, many organizations face uncertainty. They struggle with questions like:

• Who should own AI?
• Which AI solution is best?
• What talent do we need?
• Where should we start?

Any organization planning an AI transformation must address these questions to ensure a transition that makes sense. Interim talent can play a pivotal role in this process—bringing specialized expertise and flexibility to accelerate progress without the long lead times of permanent hires. Here’s how:

1. Who should own AI?

AI ownership rarely sits solely with the IT function. Successful implementation requires collaboration across multiple departments to create a shared vision for AI adoption.

For example, HR may prioritize AI for talent management, while finance may focus on customizing ERP systems. Both rely on each other to secure the right talent and skills. Without alignment, organizations risk wasted resources, miscommunication, and disruption. Here, interim professionals can help connect departments, align goals, and coordinate workstreams.

2. What AI solution is best?

Organizations often ask which AI solution is “best,” but this question can confuse tactics with strategy. Before selecting tools, organizations need to define their AI vision and goals.

Every company’s needs differ—and what works for one may not work for another. Interim talent can help prioritize use cases, evaluate options, and execute projects with the organization’s vision in mind.

3. What AI talent do we need?

There is no single profile for AI talent. Instead, organizations should identify their goals and assess existing skills gaps. For example, a team strong in infrastructure may need additional software expertise to execute an AI initiative.

Interim professionals can bridge these gaps quickly, offering flexibility and specialized skills for short-term projects. This approach allows companies to move at the right pace without committing to long-term hires before needs are clear.

Given AI’s rapid evolution, the talent needed to launch an initiative may differ from what’s required to sustain it. Interim workers provide agility during these transitions.

4. What should we start?

Data quality and cybersecurity are foundational to any AI strategy. Clean, trusted data supports both AI performance and decision-making, while strong security measures protect sensitive information.

Interim professionals can accelerate readiness efforts by supporting data projects, threat detection, and policy development. They can also build governance frameworks to manage risks associated with AI adoption.

Final Thoughts

AI transformation is complex and fast-moving. Interim talent offers flexibility, speed, and expertise to bridge gaps, align stakeholders, and implement solutions effectively. By leveraging interim professionals, companies can navigate uncertainty, accelerate progress, and build a foundation for sustainable AI success.