35. Dr. Sebastian Vieregg

Shownotes

35. Dr. Sebastian Vieregg, Director of Automotive, Telecommunications, Technology, and B2B at Google – Digital Edition

The Long-Term Business Benefits of AI: Why Increased Productivity Is Just the Beginning

In Germany, there is a lot of talk about artificial intelligence, regulation, risks, and ethics. What is often overlooked is the crucial question: What concrete, long-term benefits does AI bring to business?

In this episode, Dr. Sebastian Vieregg, Director of Automotive, Telecommunications, Technology, and B2B at Google, discusses the real business value of AI. Together with podcast host Harald R. Fortmann, he explores why many companies talk about AI and data but often lack a clear vision for their use.

The conversation makes it clear: AI is more than just a matter of efficiency. In the short term, the greatest levers lie in productivity and automation; in the long term, however, it’s about new business models, innovation, and work that creates more value. This requires clear priorities, the courage to implement them, and leaders who provide direction—even when not all the answers are clear yet.

Overview of the Contents of this Episode:

• Many companies confuse data ownership with true data effectiveness
• AI only realizes its full value once data silos are broken down
• Simply augmenting existing processes with AI is not enough
• The greatest short-term leverage of AI lies in productivity and automation
• True AI value arises from new business models and innovations
• Successful AI transformation requires a clear vision
• Leaders must provide direction – without knowing all the answers
• Data protection must not be used as an excuse for a lack of willingness to innovate
• Germany still has a good chance of using AI as a driver of innovation

Further Links:

• Dr. Sebastian Vieregg on Linkedin
• Google Website
• Harald R. Fortmann on Linkedin
• Harald R. Fortmann on Instagram
• five14 Website
• Suits & Sneakers Podcast on Linkedin
• Suits & Sneakers Podcast on Instagram

About Suits & Sneakers

Suits & Sneakers is a podcast for decision-makers. In the Digital Edition, Harald R. Fortmann, Managing Director of the executive search consultancy Five14 and Vice President of the BDU, talks to leading professionals about topics such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, new technologies and trends, and leadership in the digital age.

About Five14‍

Five14 is an executive search boutique that connects companies with individuals who shape change. From digital transformation to the age of AI, we identify executives who combine technological expertise, strategic vision, and cultural leadership.

Traditional “post and pray” recruiting no longer works here. Five14 stands for a new kind of search: targeted, discreet, networked, and always on equal footing. Our team - multiple award-winning consultants with decades of experience in marketing, sales, and corporate management in the digital industry - supports start-ups, medium-sized companies, and corporations in actively shaping the working world of tomorrow.

We make an impact, not just fill positions. As partners to our clients, we act openly, transparently, and in accordance with the principles of proper personnel consulting (BDU). Sustainability and social commitment are firmly anchored in our DNA: Since our founding, we have been climate-neutral and invest 14% of our profits in social projects.

Five14 – Executive Search for leaders who shape the future.

About this podcast production

• The intro voice-over for the podcast was recorded by CHÉRINE DE BRUIN‍
• The Deininger podcast “Suits & Sneakers” is a TON.EINS production.