Transformation in Action: Insights on AI, Scaling, and Leadership with Rémon van Riemsdijk
In the latest episode of our Podcast Transformation Today, we sat down with Rémon van Riemsdijk, a seasoned expert in IT and digital transformation. With over two decades of experience working with global corporations and cutting-edge scale-ups, Rémon has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to fuel organizational growth and efficiency. Here are the top insights from our conversation.
From Trading to Transformation
Starting in derivatives trading companies like Optiver, Rémon quickly established himself as a leader in building high-performing teams and leveraging new technologies. His journey took him to prominent institutions like ACHON (Transamerica Life in the US) and ING, where he led transformational programs that adapted organizations to the rapid pace of change in retail and financial services.
Reflecting on his later career, Rémon shared:
“In recent years, I’ve worked with scale-ups, helping them attract and retain talent, maintain culture, and grow sustainably. These companies often have a strong technical foundation and need to ensure they’re scaling without losing their identity.”
The AI Renaissance
Rémon, who graduated from the University of Amsterdam in Artificial Intelligence, spoke passionately about the rise of AI in recent years:
“In the 1990s, AI was a niche field. Now, with generative AI, it’s like a renaissance. Companies embracing AI for productization or operational efficiency are distinguishing themselves from competitors still hesitant to take the plunge.”
According to Rémon, organizations using AI effectively are already gaining a competitive edge, particularly in areas like service desk operations and online platforms. However, success hinges on having a clear strategy and understanding AI’s strengths and limitations.
Evolving Roles in the AI Era
As AI transforms industries, traditional roles are evolving. Rémon discussed how developers, for instance, are transitioning into more strategic positions:
“With tools like Copilot, programmers are no longer just coders—they’re becoming project managers and directors, overseeing AI’s integration while ensuring quality and setting guardrails.”
He emphasized the importance of programmers understanding coding deeply, even as AI takes on repetitive tasks. This knowledge allows them to direct AI effectively, ensuring it delivers accurate and scalable results.
AI in Venture Capital Decisions
Rémon highlighted the transformative potential of AI in venture capital, especially in assessing a company’s technology stack:
“Using AI to evaluate code bases offers insights into software quality, developer habits, and scalability. This is invaluable for venture capital firms making buy-or-build decisions, as it provides a clear picture of what they’re investing in.”
He added that AI can even estimate the effort required to recreate software from scratch, helping firms put a precise value on their acquisitions.
Strategic Guidance for Organizations
For companies grappling with how to integrate AI, Rémon’s advice is clear:
“Start small, use AI in controlled environments like R&D or A/B testing, and develop a strategy. It’s critical to understand that your competitors are likely exploring AI’s potential too. Staying ahead requires both action and adaptability.”
Rémon’s unique blend of technical expertise and strategic insight makes him a valuable partner for organizations navigating the complexities of AI and digital transformation.
