#18 How HR Can Drive AI Transformation, with Mónica Duque Estévez, Head of People, Influur

In this episode of the Build by People Leaders podcast, host Daria Rudnik speaks with Monica Duque, senior people leader and AI transformation driver, about what it really takes to build an AI-first organization. Drawing from her hands-on experience transforming a company through AI, Monica shares how HR can move from a support function to the driver of organizational change. Instead of waiting to be invited to the table, she explains why HR must lead by example — starting with its own processes, automating workflows, and proving impact through measurable results. The conversation explores how AI is reshaping not just tools, but entire organizational structures. Monica introduces the concept of “blended teams” — combining full-time employees, AI agents, and fractional experts — and explains why this model is becoming essential for modern companies. They also dive into the practical side of AI adoption: how to train non-technical teams, run internal AI challenges, and create a culture of experimentation that actually delivers ROI. Finally, Monica shares her “secret recipe” for successful AI transformation — and why the real challenge is not technology, but mindset.   Key Takeaways HR becomes a driver of AI transformation only when it builds and proves solutions itself, not when it facilitates or coordinates others. AI adoption works only through bottom-up learning — real change happens when teams experiment hands-on, not when leaders mandate it. The emerging org model is not just “AI-powered” — it’s blended teams: employees + AI agents + fractional experts working as one system. The real ROI of AI is not in tools, but in headcount leverage — the ability to scale output without scaling teams. The biggest shift is not technological but behavioral: mindset changes only when leaders actively learn and build alongside their teams.   https://www.influur.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/m%C3%B3nica-duque-est%C3%A9vez/    Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI-Ready Organizations 07:37 Measuring AI Transformation Success 16:14 Framework for AI Deployment 23:53 Mental Health and Cybersecurity in AI