Leadership in the age of AI: CEO Breakfast with Doug Gurr, Director of the National History Museum

Saxton Bampfylde enjoyed hosting a breakfast session for CEOs on leadership in the age of AI. We were thrilled to welcome Doug Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum and Chair of the Alan Turing Institute, along with a group of public sector Chief Executives. Led by our consultants Corrie Cowlard, Jonathan Morgan, Alex Richmond, Brett Anderson, and Rosanna Cundall, the conversation was both enlightening and practical.

Doug’s clear and accessible explanations helped us see AI in a new light—it’s not as intimidating as it seems! He reminded us that AI shouldn’t be feared because ultimately, we are the ones in control of the machines, not the other way around. Particularly uplifting was Doug’s wisdom regarding the accessibility and immediate feasibility of utilising AI as a catalyst for constructive change.

A huge thank you to Doug, and to everyone who joined us.

 

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About Doug Gurr

Doug was appointed Director of The Natural History Museum in December 2020. Previously, Doug was Country Manager of Amazon UK since 2011 and was President of Amazon China from 2014 to 2016. Earlier roles included the civil service, working as a partner at consultancy firm McKinsey and Company, Board Director at Asda-Walmart and founder and CEO of internet start-up Blueheath. Doug is also currently Chairman of the British Heart Foundation, a Trustee of the Landmark Trust. Until November 2020 he was a Trustee of the National Gallery and non-executive Director of the Land Registry, and until 2014 he was Chairman of the Science Museum Group of national museums.