Technology Leadership in 2026: CIO on AI, Cyber and Hybrid Work
CIO Rob Gilbert joins Jim Merrifield on the InfoGov Hot Seat to discuss what technology leadership actually looks like in 2026. From AI accountability to cybersecurity threats and hybrid work models, Rob delivers an honest assessment of where professional services firms stand today and what CIOs must do to stay ahead.
KEY TOPICS COVERED:
- Why change management is the most critical factor in AI adoption
- How the billable hour model persists despite AI advancements
- Who shares accountability when AI-generated work goes wrong
- Why human oversight remains essential in AI-driven processes
- The hybrid work model and why it is here to stay
- External cybersecurity threats facing firms in 2026
- Ethical responsibilities around data deletion practices
- Why first-year associates still matter in legal research
CRITICAL INSIGHTS:
→ Always have a human in the loop with AI-driven processes
→ Accountability for AI work is shared among all stakeholders
→ CIOs must adapt faster than ever to rapid technological change
→ Hybrid work requires deliberate balance between remote and in-person
→ Data deletion practices must align with ethical responsibilities
→ External cyber threats remain the top security concern for firms
→ AI will not replace first-year associates in legal research anytime soon
SOUND BITES:
- "It's always IT's fault"
- "We're still in the hybrid model"
- "Always have a human in the loop"
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - The State of Technology Leadership in 2026
02:38 - AI Adoption Challenges in Professional Services
04:29 - The Future of the Billable Hour Model
06:36 - Accountability in AI-Driven Legal Work
08:02 - Essential CIO Skills for 2026
11:33 - The Hybrid Work Environment
12:55 - Cybersecurity Threats in 2026
13:45 - Data Management and Deletion Practices
14:48 - AI vs. Human Associates in Research Tasks
Whether you are a CIO, technology leader, law firm partner, or professional services executive navigating AI transformation, this conversation delivers practical insights on leadership, accountability, and organizational readiness in 2026.
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