Mumbai: In a thought-provoking conversation hosted as part of a leadership exchange session, renowned author and strategist Rishad Tobaccowala, Senior Advisor to the Publicis Groupe, engaged in a dynamic dialogue on “Staying Relevant in an Age of Machines”. The session was moderated by Anupriya Acharya, CEO of Publicis Groupe, South Asia.
With decades of experience in steering marketing and digital transformation strategies globally, Tobaccowala addressed the evolving dynamics of the modern workplace, emphasizing the need for leaders to shift from a command-and-control mindset to a more inspirational and influential approach.
“We have entered the age of de-bossification where nobody wants bosses anymore — they’re looking for leaders,” Tobaccowala stated. “Too many leaders are acting like bosses, spending time monitoring and delegating rather than inspiring and mentoring.”
He urged senior professionals to transition from a “zone of control” to a “zone of influence,” warning that without this evolution, leaders risk becoming obsolete in the face of younger generations and machine-driven automation.
Turning his attention to Gen Z and millennials, Tobaccowala offered candid advice, “It’s a 50-year career — stop thinking short-term. Align with a growing industry, find the right boss, and don’t be lured by shiny opportunities. Remember, the grass is greener on the other side because it’s fertilized with bullshit.”
Touching on artificial intelligence, a major theme in the session, he observed that while AI is driving productivity, its most profound impact may be in amplifying human potential.
“AI is ironically helping us become more human. The top AI apps today focus on relationships, purpose, and self-growth — it’s no longer just about automation, but transformation.”
In his closing remarks, Tobaccowala reflected on India’s underestimated global stature and urged the audience to recognize the nation’s growing influence.
“People underestimate how powerful and amazing India is. Today, the future lies not in France, but in CIA — China, India, and America. India is now at the center of global business momentum.”
The discussion served as both a reality check and a rallying cry for leaders and emerging professionals alike, highlighting that in an era dominated by machines, staying relevant is ultimately about doubling down on what makes us human.
