First came automation – the realisation that some aspects of workflow can be done by machines. Next came the integration of artificial intelligence into IT operations (AIOps), robotic process automation (RPA), decision management, and business automation, resulting in cost reductions and doing more with less, maybe even more accurately. Coincidentally, automation is helping seen alleviate the skills shortage businesses are experiencing across the functions. With greater expectations around work-life balance, automation is seen as making companies healthier.All that good news aside, a challenge remains. A study by the Economist Intelligence Unit says despite 91% of surveyed organisations deploying automation, only 53% are fully utilising it.As automation technology and its use matures, it is time to take all of this to the next level. In this PodChats for FutureCIO, we are joined by Dinesh Nirmal, General Manager, IBM Data, AI, and Automation, to talk about the rise of the Chief Automation Officer.1. Automation has been around for decades. Other than innovations in technology like AI and ML, what is different about automation today compared to five years ago?2. What is a chief automation officer? What are the primary roles and responsibility of this position?3. At what point does a company decide that it needs a CAO?4. What qualifications and experience and background will fit the role of a CAO?5. Given that this role is relatively new, how does a company acquire such a talent? Is it best to promote from within?6. Who does the CAO report to? How does an organisation determine the proper reporting lines for this role?7. With technology continuing to evolve, do you expect this CAO role to eventually be integrated into another responsibility?

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