What happens in Vegas absolutely shouldn't stay in Vegas

AWS re:Invent 2024 has just wrapped up, and I’m still buzzing with insights from one of the most impactful conferences of the year. This year’s event was a masterclass in how AI and cloud technologies are reshaping the business landscape, and why #CFOs are uniquely positioned to lead the charge.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LY7m5LQliAo

Here are my top takeaways from the event and why I believe what happened in Vegas absolutely shouldn’t stay in Vegas:

The Strategic CFOs are Turning AI into Business Value

One of the biggest revelations from re:Invent was the role CFOs can play in driving AI adoption that aligns with business goals. AWS showcased incredible examples of companies like Novo Nordisk using AI to automate previously cumbersome processes, reducing regulatory documentation creation from two months to just minutes.

For me, this reinforced the idea that CFOs are no longer just financial gatekeepers. THEY ARE the enablers who ensure AI investments translate into REAL, MEASURABLE outcomes that directly benefit the bottom line.

My gAI aligns AI initiatives with specific business goals to ensure measurable ROI. CFOs must champion tools that deliver immediate value, such as compliance automation or predictive analytics.

ROI and risk, making every AI dollar count

One of the most talked about topics at the conference was the ROI of AI investments, and how CFOs can take the lead in ensuring these projects deliver tangible results. AWS's emphasis on MICRO AI resonated with me. Instead of chasing grandiose “god AI” systems, the focus is shifting toward tactical, targeted implementations that solve specific business problems.

Novo Nordisk’s NovoScribe was a prime example of this: a focused AI tool that saved thousands of work hours and delivered massive efficiency gains.

My gAI is focusing on micro AI implementations, CFOs can ensure every dollar invested in AI delivers clear, measurable returns, while minimizing financial risks.

Diversification and resilience, lessons from AWS’s strategy

AWS’s approach to the AI arms race was another standout theme for me. Their strategy of blending proprietary innovations like Trainium chips with partnerships with NVIDIA and AMD highlights the importance of diversification, not just in technology but also in financial planning.

For CFOs, this is a powerful lesson. Diversifying investments and partnerships ensures resilience in volatile markets and sets the stage for long-term growth.

My gAI applies diversification strategies to AI investments and beyond. Balance internal innovation with external partnerships to build resilient, scalable solutions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGzYTg5FIA4

Needless to say, networking in Vegas, what happens in Vegas, shouldn’t stay in Vegas

The networking opportunities at re:Invent were unparalleled. I had the chance to connect with fellow CFOs, AWS leaders, and industry pioneers who are all grappling with similar challenges, how to balance innovation with financial prudence. From hearing how JP Morgan leverages AI to enhance fraud detection to Novo Nordisk’s targeted approach, these conversations provided invaluable insights I’ll be taking back to my team.

And let’s not forget the infamous Vegas mantra, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.” For me, that couldn’t be further from the truth. I’m bringing back actionable ideas, best practices, and a renewed sense of how we can position our organizations for success in the AI era.

In my gAI, user conferences like #re:Invent not just to learn but to build a network of like-minded peers who can share insights and strategies for tackling common challenges.

Tactical AI, a game-changer for CFOs

The shift from broad, generalized AI systems to tactical AI solutions was a major highlight. These “micro AI” tools focus on solving specific, high-impact problems and are much easier to implement and measure. For CFOs, this represents a significant opportunity to deliver value without overextending resources.

AWS’s Trainium2 clusters and Project Rainier supercomputer demonstrate how tactical approaches can scale to meet enterprise needs while keeping costs in check. This aligns perfectly with what we as CFOs strive for, strategic investments that deliver big returns.

My gAI focuses on micro AI to drive immediate, measurable results while laying the groundwork for scalable, long-term innovation.

Lessons for CFOs, from Vegas to the victory lap

AWS re:Invent 2024 reinforced that the modern CFO’s role is more critical, and more exciting than ever. From driving AI ROI to building resilient investment strategies, it's being at the center of the transformation that’s redefining how businesses operate.

Here’s my gAI:

• Prioritize ROI: Every AI project must have a clear business case with defined metrics for success.
• Embrace Tactical AI: Start small with targeted solutions that solve specific problems before scaling up.
• Network Strategically: Leverage peer insights and AWS’s expertise to stay ahead of emerging trends.
• Diversify Smartly: Balance innovation with risk management by partnering strategically and diversifying investments.

What a playground of possibilities

It's a strategic playground for CFOs to explore how AI and cloud innovation can shape the future of businesses The insights gained will play a pivotal role in shaping our AI strategy and ensuring every dollar spent is a dollar well-invested.

So, while Vegas might be known for its secrets, the lessons from re:Invent are too important to keep under wraps. With CFO's, we have the opportunity, and the responsibility, to take these insights and turn them into action that drives real, measurable value for our organizations. Let’s have fun at work!