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E43 | Navigating uncertainty in AI and the workplace with Martin Bean

Published Mar 30, 2025, 7:00 PM

Professor Martin Bean CBE is a globally recognised education futurist, workplace strategist, and former leader of The Open University, RMIT, and FutureLearn. As CEO of The Bean Centre and a professor at UNSW, he helps leaders and organisations adapt to rapid change with clarity and confidence.

Prof Bean explores the shifting landscape of education and work, the impact of AI and automation, and the essential skills needed to thrive in the future. As technology reshapes industries, he outlines the biggest mistakes leaders make under pressure and why adaptability is now the most valuable trait in business. He discusses how to navigate uncertainty, make bold decisions, and build resilience in times of rapid change. 

Takeaways 

  • The future of work demands adaptability, not just technical skills. 
  • AI and automation are reshaping industries faster than most leaders expect. 
  • Successful leaders embrace curiosity and adaptability over rigid control. 
  • Workplace culture thrives on purpose, not perks or surveillance. 
  • Future-proof careers prioritise lifelong learning and critical thinking. 
  • Hybrid work requires rethinking collaboration, not just office attendance policies. 
  • Emotional intelligence is becoming as valuable as technical expertise. 
  • Disruption is inevitable – the key is learning how to navigate it. 

Follow Prof Martin Bean
https://www.thebeancentre.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/professor-martin-bean-cbe-84655b1a2/ 

Books on this episode
Toolkit for Turbulence: The Mindset and Methods That Leaders Need to Turn Adversity to Advantage https://amzn.to/4kBRa90
Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us about the Business of Life by James Kerr https://amzn.to/3Fqm8ko

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEvolutionPartners 

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Books – Learn more about our books https://evolutionpartners.com.au/books/
Made to Thrive: The practical, prescriptive guide on how to be a great CEO 
Onboarded: How to bring new hires to the points where they are more effective faster. A business case for leaders on why you should commit to an effective onboarded process
Onboarded for Managers: Helping managers bring new hires to the point where they are more effective faster 

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on https://au.linkedin.com/in/bradleygiles
on https://twitter.com/Evolution_Perth 

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Each week Brad Giles talks with the world’s leading thinkers, planners and doers who are helping to  
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