Explore how AI agents are reshaping decision-making, risk & governance oversight.

Overview

AI agents are beginning to reshape how work gets done and how organisations make decisions—unlocking new efficiencies while introducing new forms of risk. Their influence can extend beyond obvious use cases, subtly shaping culture, decision pathways, and even product quality in ways that are not always visible. 

For boards, the central challenge is oversight. Directors need clear visibility of where AI is being used, the assumptions underpinning its outputs, and whether human judgement remains embedded in critical decisions. Without this, risks can emerge unchecked. 

Join Ben Kepes as he explores how this rapid shift is creating new governance considerations. This session will highlight what directors should be asking, where attention should be focused, and how boards can build the capability needed to ensure effective oversight in an increasingly AI-enabled environment. 

Ben Kepes

CFInstD

Ben is a professional board member, a globally-recognized technology commentator, and an entrepreneur Ben has served on the boards of a number of non-profit, privately held and public-sector entities in New Zealand and the UK. He has won a number of accolades including being a recipient of the Sir Peter Blake Leadership Award and being recognised as a Chartered Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Directors in 2021. Ben has been an investor in a large number of early-stage technology startups across three continents and has had successful exits to listed and privately held companies in Canada, the US, and the UK. He has served on the advisory boards of a number of technology startups in New Zealand, Australia, the US, and the UK. 

Additional information

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Accessibility and companion tickets

If you have a disability or accessibility requirement, we can provide a complimentary ticket for a support person to attend with you. Please register as usual through the IoD website, then email the Waikato Branch Manager at Megan.Beveridge@iod.org.nz to arrange your companion’s complimentary registration.

Branch event cancellation policy

Regrettably, registration fees cannot be refunded when cancellations are received within two working days prior to any branch event.  See our standard terms and conditions for more information.

Contact

Megan Beveridge
Waikato and Bay of Plenty Branch Manager

+64 21 358 772
megan.beveridge@iod.org.nz

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