First cohort completes Managing AI WISEly Program

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2 April 2025

The first cohort of VU School of Business and Economics Executive Education's newest program-built on four years of ethnographic research-has successfully completed their journey! Designed for managers exploring AI technologies and their organizational impact, this program marks an exciting new chapter in executive learning.

After eight weeks of exploring the complexities of AI in organizations, the first participants of the Managing AI WISEly postgraduate program have completed their journey. The program bridges AI theory with real-world organizational challenges, covering topics such as data organization, testing & validation, algorithmic brokering, and change management. The program was developed by the researchers of the AI@Work group (KIN Center for Digital Innovation) in collaboration with practitioners, based on the insights of the four years of research on how AI is developed and applied within organizations.

On the last day of the program, participants went on a field trip to RTL, the country's largest all-round commercial TV and entertainment company. The visit, hosted by Jana Retkowsky and Daan Odijk, RTL's Head of Data & AI, provided an engaging and insightful experience, featuring a behind-the-scenes tour, discussions, presentations, and a hackathon.

Key Takeaways from the Program

Throughout the eight weeks, students gained valuable insights and practical expertise, including:

• A solid understanding of AI technologies, including generative AI and its distinctions from other tools
• In-depth knowledge of real-world AI applications, from development to implementation
• Best practices for managing AI in organizations
• A critical perspective on AI's intended outcomes, ripple effects, and unintended consequences
• Strategies for bringing together developers, domain experts, and stakeholders to ensure responsible AI implementation

The success of the program would not have been possible without the dedication of program director and AI@Work research group founder Marleen Huysman, along with the teaching team-Lauren Waardenburg, Anne-Sophie Mayer, Reza M Baygi, Francesco Balocco, and Marijn Plomp-who also coordinated the program.

Congratulations to the first cohort! We look forward to seeing how they apply their knowledge in shaping the future of AI.