Balancing AI and Human Touch in Agency Resourcing

AI is everywhere in the conversation right now, but for agencies, the real challenge isn’t whether to use it; it’s knowing when not to. From streamlining administrative work to speeding up asset production, AI can deliver efficiency. But applied in the wrong places, it risks damaging client trust, oversimplifying compliance, or adding more work than it saves.

In this session, Brenda Maier, EVP of Resource Management – U.S. Operations at Publicis Groupe, and David Weiss, SVP of Revenue at Worksome, shared how Publicis is using AI to boost efficiency in resourcing while setting boundaries on where the human touch is essential. Attendees will gain a clear framework for knowing when AI adds value and when people should take the lead.

Speakers

David Weiss – SVP, Revenue @ Worksome
David Weiss is Head of Revenue at Worksome, helping agencies manage their freelance talent with greater speed, compliance, and control. With over 25 years of experience in contingent workforce technology, he’s held leadership roles at VNDLY, Workday, and SAP Fieldglass, bringing a deep understanding of how agencies can turn independent talent into a competitive advantage.

Brenda Maier – EVP, Resource Management & Operations – Publicis Creative @ Publicis Groupe
Brenda Maier is EVP of Resource Management & Operations at Publicis Groupe, where she has shaped and scaled workforce and resource management strategy across leading creative agencies including Leo, Fallon, BBH, and Publicis Health. With a career spanning Creative Services, Production, and Talent leadership, Brenda is known for bridging people and financials, solving complex challenges, and ensuring resources are managed with impact and agility. She believes strongly in the power of technology to drive efficiency and agility and is passionate about operational excellence—building scalable systems and smarter ways of working that unlock both creativity and performance.