Almudena de la Mata: Reflections on AI and Corporate Governance
On October 15, Almudena de la Mata, CEO of Blockchain Intelligence, participated in the event “Artificial Intelligence and Corporate Governance: Challenges and Opportunities for Boards in the Era of Digital Transformation” at the Fundación Renta 4 auditorium. Organized by the Institute of Governance and Society along with Amrop Spain, this event brought together business leaders and experts to discuss the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in board decision-making processes. Almudena shared the panel with Óscar García-Velasco of Amrop Spain, José Manuel Arnaiz of Digi, José María Beneyto of IGS, and Luis María Huete of IESE.
In her presentation, Almudena shared her insights on how AI can be integrated into executive boards, highlighting tools that board members can use to improve decision-making efficiency. She emphasized the importance of boards understanding the inherent risks of using AI tools in their processes and adapting their risk management strategies to prevent or mitigate potential adverse effects.
For European companies, compliance with the AI Act is essential, but Almudena stressed that there are also important ethical considerations that must be addressed. Although AI tools can assist in creating scenarios and assessing risks, the ultimate responsibility for decisions remains with board members. This requires them to justify their decisions and ensure that the AI tools they use are safe and transparent.
Almudena also discussed the need for board members to evaluate AI’s impact on business, ensuring the company remains competitive and adapts sustainably to new technologies that influence business models and productivity. This adaptation includes understanding AI’s potential and its effects on operations, human resources, and the workplace environment. Given the complexity of these challenges, she highlighted the importance of training and professional development for board members so they can address key strategic elements of AI and apply them effectively in their business models.
Finally, Almudena presented a forward-looking view, questioning whether AI tools might one day take on some board decision-making or functions. However, she emphasized that, regardless of AI’s role in these processes, the ultimate responsibility in decision-making always rests with board members, who must be able to explain the reasoning and process behind each decision.
With her participation, Almudena de la Mata reaffirms Blockchain Intelligence’s commitment to exploring innovative solutions that enable companies to transition ethically and securely into an advanced digital environment.