AI-powered decision-making is shaping the future of business, but it’s also creating invisible barriers to progression. Hiring, promotions, client onboarding, and financial decision-making are all increasingly driven by algorithms - but these algorithms are currently trained on existing inequalities. This session will explore how firms can ensure AI helps, rather than hinders, efforts to create a diverse and inclusive industry.

1. Intro

• "The Invisible Ceiling" – how AI can create hidden barriers
• Quick poll: Who here is using AI-driven tools in recruitment, payroll, client onboarding, or risk assessment?

2. The Risks: When AI Reinforces the Status Quo 

• AI in hiring and promotions - how algorithms can favour “typical” candidates over diverse talent
• AI in client selection - risk assessment tools that disadvantage certain groups
• AI in performance evaluations - biased algorithms reinforcing existing power structures
• Real-world example: Amazon’s AI-driven hiring tool that disproportionately filtered out female candidates, lending companies disproportionately declining black applicants. 

3. The Fix: How to Ensure AI Breaks Barriers, Not Builds Them 

• The role of humans - AI can’t be left unchecked
• Setting clear ethical AI principles in your firm
• Training AI models on diverse, representative data
• Establishing regular bias audits to ensure AI-driven decisions remain fair
• Transparency in AI decision-making. Processes should be visible and accountable
• The role of leadership in holding AI (and your teams) accountable

4. Wrap-Up & Q&A 

• Summary of key points
• Practical takeaways for firms using AI in hiring, risk assessment, and operations
• Open Q&A