A view from Bloomberg Tech London – Shaping tomorrow with AI and innovation

As we approach 2026, it’s a natural moment to pause and reflect. The past year has been defined by significant shifts and constant change across the global landscape, including economically, politically, and technologically.

For businesses, that means transformation is no longer a one-off initiative; it’s the new normal. We’re now operating in an environment where complexity is rising, and the pace of innovation is accelerating.

AI sits firmly at the centre of this shift, reshaping how organisations work, connect with customers, and make decisions. With data multiplying and expectations climbing, the focus is now on making AI meaningful—not just to stay competitive, but to lead with confidence.

Today, I joined fellow tech leaders at the Bloomberg Tech London event to explore how AI can help businesses grow sustainably in an ever-changing landscape. Discussions centred on how the UK and Europe can build resilient, independent digital infrastructure to support long-term innovation. As part of the Innovators Circle, I joined a roundtable focused on practical strategies for making AI work in real-world settings.

A number of powerful themes emerged throughout the day:

• Balance innovation with integration
  While the technology itself is fascinating and evolving rapidly, successful integration is what truly drives impact. That means developing strategies that prioritise talent, culture, and operational alignment. Ultimately, technology alone isn’t the solution. It is how it’s embedded into the business that matters.
• Risk with purpose
  We are starting to see an environment where there is a growing appetite to take calculated risks rather than risk being left behind. However, that risk must be intentional. It has to be grounded in collaboration, a clear purpose, and a shared understanding of the value it can create for customers and clients.
• Global innovation with local relevance
  Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. The most forward-thinking businesses are taking a global approach. They are scaling what works, learning from diverse markets, and adapting with agility. Knowing where to innovate and where to scale is key to unlocking sustainable growth.

One analogy that really resonated was the idea that technologists are like carpenters. They build, shape, and refine ideas with skill and intention. But even the most skilled carpenter needs a blueprint, the right tools, and a team that shares the same goal.

So, as we look ahead to 2026, navigating the complexity of today’s digital landscape will require more than just technical capability. It will demand deep collaboration across disciplines, shared insight, and a collective commitment to purposeful innovation.