GoviEx Uranium’s Isabel Vilela SPEAKS AHEAD of the ai and technology forum – europe
Ahead of our upcoming IR Forum – AI and Technology Europe, set to be held in London on March 13, IR Impact has caught up with some of the event’s leading speakers to understand how they currently handle emerging technologies in their role, and the particular aspects of that usage that they will discuss in more detail on the day.
Isabel Vilela heads investor relations and corporate communications at GoviEx, where she serves as a key member of the uranium producer’s executive team. At the event, she’ll be speaking on the topic of how her journey with using AI and other technologies has progressed after a year of implementation, alongside IROs from Fresnius and Mister Spex.
Below, Vilela discusses the challenges and opportunities for adopting AI in IR, and previews some of the discussions ahead of the event.
Tickets to attend the IR Forum – AI and Technology Europe are available here.
You’ll be talking on a panel titled ‘AI and Technology – a year on’ at the IR Forum – AI and Technology Europe. Which aspects of this important topic are you keen to explore?
A year ago, AI was still a bit of a novelty for many IR departments. I was fascinated by its potential as I could see its relevance to our profession. I was keen to integrate AI into as many workflows as I could. A year on, I think the honeymoon period is ending, and I am more interested in policy, regulation, IP, data accuracy, ethics, biases and the sustainability of AI as a technology.
Whilst AI is undoubtedly here to stay — having already existed in less sophisticated forms over years — the latest generation of image, video and content creation raises many questions on the subjects above. These critical questions around trust, governance, and responsible adoption are central to the discussions I hope to engage in at the forum.
What else are you looking forward to hearing about or discussing at the event?
I am especially keen to hear more about how companies are creating frameworks to regulate AI in their own ecosystems as a substitute for the lack of regulation or guidance from policymakers elsewhere. The rapid development of AI technology outpaced legislative frameworks, leaving businesses navigating uncharted waters. I am also interested in hearing about new technologies and service providers that might have solutions to some of the challenges and concerns regarding AI implementation.
What do you think is stopping more IROs from experimenting with or using AI?
For many IR professionals, the barriers to AI adoption are as significant as the potential benefits. Concerns around privacy, data integrity, regulatory uncertainty and algorithmic bias create hesitation. These challenges must be addressed before AI can be fully embraced in its most recent form. Another key consideration is that AI is not a singular tool but an entire ecosystem, encompassing everything from text generation to predictive analytics and creative content production. Each application presents its own set of challenges, making it difficult for organizations to determine where and how AI can be most effectively integrated.
That being said, the primary driver of AI adoption is simple: efficiency. AI enables professionals to work faster, smarter and more effectively. In fact, one of the biggest challenges companies may soon face is employees using AI independently, even in workplaces where its use is restricted or prohibited. Rather than resisting AI, perhaps businesses should focus on implementing clear guidelines to ensure its responsible use.
Can you tell us about your background in how you are implementing AI in your role?
AI is part of my daily life and I use it extensively — leveraging it for data analysis, communication, and decision-making — however as the landscape is constantly evolving, I am looking forward to hearing about other applications and tools that I do not know about. Attending this forum presents an excellent opportunity to exchange insights with peers and gain a deeper understanding of the latest AI developments shaping our profession.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in your profession so far and what do feel is the next big challenge on the horizon?
Investor relations is no stranger to high-pressure situations. Over the course of my career, I’ve navigated a variety of complex challenges — from the simultaneous resignation of CEOs and CFOs to product failures, boardroom conflicts and some serious geopolitical instability. But at its core, IR is about good communication, maintaining transparency and trust even at the most uncertain times.
Looking ahead, I believe one of the greatest challenges for IR professionals is navigating the current climate of economic and geopolitical uncertainty, which may come with unexpected changes and challenges.
If you were to give your audience at the AI and Technology Forum one piece of advice, what would it be?
Whether we like it or not, AI is here to stay. Be informed and prepared.
Find out more about the IR Forum – AI and Technology Europe here.
