The CIPD has announced the appointment of Danilo McGarry as its new strategic adviser on artificial intelligence. McGarry, a recognised expert in AI and digital transformation, will support the professional body’s work on the integration of AI within HR and organisational contexts.
McGarry brings experience from leading AI programmes at major firms including Citigroup and UnitedHealth Group. He has also delivered AI training at international consultancy organisations. In his new role, he will guide the CIPD’s approach to supporting its members and the broader HR community in understanding the implications of AI for work, people and organisational development.
The appointment follows findings from the CIPD’s 2024 member survey which reported that 61 percent of senior leaders identified AI as a challenge. In response, McGarry will help shape the resources, tools and guidance offered by the CIPD to support organisations and HR professionals in managing the impact of AI.
His responsibilities will also include advising the CIPD board on the organisation’s internal use of AI, and contributing to ongoing work under the BridgeAI programme, a government-backed initiative exploring AI adoption in the workplace.
Focusing on the business impact of AI in HR
The CIPD’s involvement in BridgeAI includes research into how AI is being applied in organisations, the ethical frameworks required for responsible adoption, and the development of an AI skills framework to match evolving employer needs. McGarry will support these efforts by offering strategic input based on his experience in the private sector.
Speaking about 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.”
McGarry will play a key role in guiding the CIPD’s position on AI-related research and helping HR professionals navigate the ongoing transformation of work processes and employee experience. His work will also include examining how organisations can approach AI deployment in ways that align with business goals and ethical considerations.
Challenges and opportunities of AI
Peter Cheese, Chief Executive of the CIPD, welcomed the appointment. “We’re delighted to be working with Danilo and learning from his extensive experience, connections and research into AI implementation, legislation and policy,” he said. “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.”
Cheese added that the CIPD remains committed to helping organisations adopt AI responsibly. “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.”
