Future of work and AI: Fanny Rouhet calls for purpose to be placed at the heart of transformation

July 7, 2026 · News

In brief:

In an opinion piece published in L’Essentiel de l’Éco, Fanny Rouhet, Human Resources Director at Wavestone, urges companies to look beyond an approach to artificial intelligence focused solely on productivity gains. The transformation now underway calls for a broader rethink of how work is organized, the role employees play and the conditions required to create greater value while making work more meaningful.

AI marks a new stage in the transformation of work

The first applications of artificial intelligence in the workplace were largely viewed through the lens of individual productivity. Employees could use AI to write faster or summarize information, as well as produce an initial draft of a document.

The emergence of AI agents and applications created using natural language is now opening a new chapter. Employees are moving beyond the use of AI as an assistant. They can delegate certain tasks and oversee their execution, giving them greater control over their working environment.

In her opinion piece, Fanny Rouhet argues that this development should encourage companies to reconsider how tasks are distributed, how people work together and the role each individual plays. Automating repetitive activities can free up employees to focus on work that requires sound judgment or creativity, particularly when a nuanced understanding of the situation is needed.

Technology alone, however, will not be enough to make this transformation successful. Companies will also need to support employees as skills evolve, establish clear responsibilities and create a shared sense of purpose around the adoption of AI.

Read the full opinion piece