Reflecting on the Fortino CPO & CTO Summit
Reflecting on the Fortino CPO & CTO Summit
On May 15th, 2025, Fortino Capital hosted the CPO & CTO Summit, bringing together product & technology leaders to discuss the transformative role of AI in B2B software. The event featured insightful presentations and panel discussions led by experts from diverse fields. From innovation waves to sustainable AI and cybersecurity challenges, the summit offered a comprehensive look at the opportunities and risks AI presents to software leaders.
Navigating AI Waves: Innovation and Disruption
Jacques Bughin, Senior Advisor at Fortino Capital, shared his vision of AI as both an opportunity and a challenge. He stated that it is a great time for companies to disrupt or to get disrupted. According to him, there are three types of AI: Predictive, Generative, and Agentic AI, with the latter expected to dominate future market value. He emphasized that companies embracing multi-agent AI will position themselves as premium players within their ecosystems. Jacques also stressed that AI as an operational tool is essential, and pooling resources among companies can significantly increase value.
Leadership in the AI Era: Visionaries, Rebels, and Machines
Jamie Dobson, CEO and Founder of Container Solutions, offered a fresh perspective on the acceleration of innovation waves. He described innovation as more of a tsunami than a wave, starting from an earthquake in the late 1800s with electricity and the lightbulb, with each wave building upon the previous one. Jamie emphasized the importance of learning-oriented leadership and creating environments that foster psychological safety to encourage innovation.
AI and Sustainability: A Delicate Balance
Erik Mannens from the University of Antwerp explored the intersection of AI and sustainability. He argued that sustainable AI must align with human values, prioritizing transparency and trust. Erik warned that not every business problem requires AI, suggesting that simpler, energy-efficient solutions should be considered when appropriate. He also highlighted the need for future AI to reduce energy consumption while maintaining robust and auditable processes.
Cybersecurity: Integrating AI into Secure DevOps
Stefaan van Daele from IBM focused on the evolving challenges of cybersecurity in AI-driven environments. He explained that as AI becomes more agentic, new attack vectors emerge, necessitating comprehensive security strategies. Incorporating security measures early in the development process, a strategy often referred to as "shift left," helps mitigate risks. Stefaan also emphasized that building and maintaining trust should be at the core of every AI implementation.
AI Monetization: Turning Innovation into Value
Ruben de Lange from Simon-Kucher & Partners discussed strategies to effectively monetize AI capabilities. He argued that companies must focus on delivering clear, tangible value rather than implementing AI just for the sake of it. He pointed out that pricing models should accurately reflect the level of user engagement and perceived value.
Closing Thoughts
Duco Sickinghe, Managing Partner at Fortino Capital, closed the event with a call for CTOs and CPOs to embrace risk and focus on building resilient, adaptable organizations in the face of rapid technological change.