As organizations increasingly look to AI systems to transform the workspace, People and Talent professionals are being challenged to integrate these tools in ways that enhance, rather than diminish, the human dimension of work.
The SPS M.S. in Human Capital Management (HCM) program’s hosted an AI-focused event, where alums Thiviya Nadesakumaran (’20SPS), program manager on the Netflix Talent Acquisition Operations team, and Keziah Tan (’20SPS), HR Business Partner (HRBP) and project manager at Netflix, shared how their teams are piloting and implementing AI applications across the talent lifecycle. The discussion was moderated by HCM lecturers Josh Bellis and Nabeel Ahmad, who framed the conversation within ongoing HR innovation and organizational transformation efforts.
Reimagining Talent Workflows Through AI
The speakers highlighted Netflix’s approach to AI as a tool that supports creativity and decision-making, rather than replacing it. This approach draws from Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos’ vision, who said, “AI is a creator’s tool, not a creative tool.” Nadesakumaran and Tan emphasized the importance of experimentation, cross-functional collaboration, and user-centered design through Netflix’s Enterprise Productivity GenAI Working Group, which focuses on enhancing workflows across teams through specific AI tools.
They shared some of the AI tools currently in pilot at Netflix, including:
- Netflix Search, which helps employees locate information across documentation and collaboration tools.
- Productivity Assistants that help users generate insights without requiring prompting expertise.
- Gemini for real-time transcription, summarization, and follow-up documentation in meetings within Google Workspace.
- An AI-powered applicant tracking system that combines advanced technology with a human-led
approach, helping teams source and match candidates more efficiently while maintaining the
insight and nuance of experienced recruiters.
These tools, they noted, enable HR business partners to synthesize performance data for nuanced career conversations, help employees identify development opportunities, and support recruiters in designing stronger job descriptions and search strategies. “We’re adapting and pushing boundaries, and it’s exciting to see how we continue to evolve in the AI space,” noted Nadesakumaran.
Keeping the Human at the Center
The session also addressed emerging challenges: the risk of reduced interpersonal engagement, the need for transparency in feedback, and the responsibility managers hold in ensuring that AI-generated outputs are grounded in accurate, bias-conscious data. The speakers underscored that AI does not remove human judgment—instead, it facilitates thoughtful oversight and meaningful dialogue while easing the transactional burden for HR professionals.
Ultimately, AI has undeniably entered our world. As one attendee pointed out, “Why not use technology to make the workplace a better, friendlier place for employees?” The panelists agreed that the value of AI lies not in task automation alone, but in creating time and space for richer, more intentional collaboration.
Key Takeaways for Professionals
Attendees left with practical insights into how AI implementation is an iterative, collaborative process. Netflix, as a leader breaking new ground in this field, offers a path forward for other companies to embrace AI as a strategy for elevating strategic work. Looking ahead for emerging leaders, “We need to be ambassadors for our own program,” explained SPS Student Government HCM Program Representative Alexandra Mayorga. “These types of events are key to building our networks and gaining the insider insights that will jumpstart our careers.”
About the Program
The M.S. in Human Capital Management at Columbia University prepares graduates to be world-class HCM strategists able to address changing needs in building and motivating talented, engaged workforces in the private, public, academic, and not-for-profit sectors.
The program is available part-time, full-time, on-campus, and online. Learn more about the program here.
