Published byCIPD

CIPD appoints Danilo McGarry as strategic adviser on AI

The CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, has appointed top AI and digital transformation expert Danilo McGarry as a strategic adviser on AI.

A former head of AI at Citigroup and UnitedHealth Group, Danilo has advised on significant AI implementation programmes at large international organisations and delivered AI training at top consultancy firms.

According to the CIPD’s 2024 member survey, the majority (61%) of senior leaders saw navigating the use of AI as a problem for them. Danilo will work with the CIPD to advise them in developing the support, tools and guidance it offers to members and employers as they seek to understand the business benefits of AI and respond to the profound changes it is making in society and work.

He will also work with the CIPD to shape its research into the impact of AI on people, work and organisations, including what AI implementation will mean for the HR profession. 

He will advise the CIPD board on the current and potential use of AI within the CIPD and support the CIPD’s work as part of the government-backed BridgeAI programme. The CIPD’s involvement in BridgeAI includes research into AI applications and implications in organisations; refining frameworks for ethical AI adoption; and extending the AI skills framework and understanding of employers’ skills needs.

Commenting on his appointment, Danilo McGarry said: “I'm thrilled to be joining the CIPD as a strategic adviser. Through this collaboration, I look forward to helping support the people profession in its role in delivering on the great potential for AI to help create better jobs and working environments for people and positive outcomes for organisations, while also understanding and mitigating the risks.

Peter Cheese, Chief Executive of the CIPD, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Danilo and learning from his extensive experience, connections and research into AI implementation, legislation and policy. The rapid acceleration of AI presents many challenges and opportunities for employers, and we’re likely to see significant shifts in how work is done and the types of work people do. This is a significant agenda and opportunity for the people profession which we want to encourage and support.

“Through our work with Danilo, we’ll continue to support organisations with responsible and ethical AI adoption, ensuring it is implemented in ways that drive business performance and help create good work for people.”