Levi Strauss' Chief Global Strategy and AI Officer on Upskilling Digital Talent

Levi Strauss' Chief Global Strategy and AI Officer on Upskilling Digital Talent

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Importance of Digital Talent in Today's Business Landscape
3. The Two Ways to Address the Challenge of Acquiring Digital Talent
   • Hiring from Outside
   • Upskilling the Internal Workforce
4. Attracting and Retaining Digital Talent at Levi Strauss & Co.
   • Hiring from Outside: Leveraging the Levi's Brand
   • Positioning Levi's as a Fashion Tech Company
   • The Power of Brand and Vision
5. Upskilling the Internal Workforce at Levi Strauss & Co.
   • Creating a Digital Upskilling Portfolio
   • Training Employees in Machine Learning
   • Success Stories of Upskilled Employees
6. The Impact of Digital Upskilling on Employee Engagement and Loyalty
   • Champions of Digital Innovation and Transformation
   • Increased Loyalty and Retention
7. The Future of Digital Talent: Every Company as a Digital, Data, and AI Company
8. Conclusion

The Importance of Digital Talent and Upskilling in Today's Business Landscape

In today's increasingly digitalized world, companies across industries are recognizing the importance of having strong digital talent. The demand for individuals with expertise in technology and artificial intelligence (AI) has been steadily rising, with businesses realizing that digital capabilities are essential for survival and success. This demand has been further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as organizations have come to rely on digital operations more than ever before.

The Two Ways to Address the Challenge of Acquiring Digital Talent

To meet the challenge of acquiring digital talent, companies have two primary strategies. The first is to hire from outside, bringing in individuals with the necessary skills and experience. This approach is particularly useful for industries that have not traditionally been at the forefront of digital innovation, such as apparel retail.

The Second strategy, which can be equally beneficial, is to focus on upskilling the existing workforce. By providing opportunities for training and development, companies can nurture the internal talent pool and empower employees to learn new digital skills. This approach leverages the AdVantage of having employees who already possess industry knowledge, company-specific insights, and a deep understanding of the business operations.

Attracting and Retaining Digital Talent at Levi Strauss & Co.

Levi Strauss & Co., a renowned apparel retail company Based in San Francisco, faces the same challenge of attracting and retaining digital talent. However, the company has implemented strategies that have proven successful in this competitive landscape.

Hiring from Outside: Leveraging the Levi's Brand

The Levi's brand has been a powerful tool in attracting digital talent from outside the company. Known not just for apparel but also for values like freedom and democracy, Levi's serves as a magnet for individuals who want to make an impact and be part of a brand with a rich history. By positioning Levi's as a fashion tech company, the company opens up new avenues for attracting talent interested in the emerging field of fashion tech.

Positioning Levi's as a Fashion Tech Company

Levi's aims to disrupt the fashion industry with its innovative approach to technology and AI. By embracing the concept of fashion tech, the company believes it can lead the industry and entice individuals who are passionate about making a difference. This vision appeals to those who want to be part of a company at the forefront of digital innovation.

Upskilling the Internal Workforce at Levi Strauss & Co.

In addition to hiring from outside, Levi Strauss & Co. recognizes the value of upskilling its existing employees. The company has created a comprehensive digital upskilling portfolio to provide employees with opportunities to learn and develop new technological skills.

Creating a Digital Upskilling Portfolio

Levi Strauss & Co. has established a digital upskilling portfolio that offers various training programs for different roles within the company. One of their notable initiatives is the machine learning bootcamp, which has trained 101 employees in the past year. These bootcamp graduates come from diverse backgrounds, such as design, distribution centers, and stores, bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the program.

Training Employees in Machine Learning

The machine learning bootcamp equips employees with the skills necessary to tackle digital challenges within the company. With their deep understanding of the business and industry, these upskilled employees can identify and address specific problems and pain points that have existed for years. For example, a textile engineer developed a neural network that applies artistic images to iconic Levi's garments, resulting in unique and AI-powered products.

Success Stories of Upskilled Employees

The success of the digital upskilling initiative at Levi Strauss & Co. is evident in the engagement and loyalty of the upskilled employees. Graduates of the machine learning bootcamp have become champions of digital innovation and transformation within the company. Not only have these employees embraced their newly acquired skills, but their managers have also demonstrated increased engagement and loyalty. This positive outcome has prompted Levi Strauss & Co. to offer additional digital upskilling opportunities for its employees.

The Future of Digital Talent: Every Company as a Digital, Data, and AI Company

It is crucial for every company, regardless of industry, to recognize that they are all becoming digital, data, and AI companies. In today's business landscape, digital capabilities, data analysis, and AI are integral components of success. While some companies may not realize the extent of this transformation, eventually, they will need to embrace these elements to stay competitive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the demand for digital talent continues to grow as companies realize the essential role technology and AI play in their operations. To address this challenge, companies like Levi Strauss & Co. utilize a combination of hiring from outside and upskilling their existing workforce. By attracting digital talent with their brand and vision, as well as offering internal upskilling programs, companies can ensure they have the necessary expertise to thrive in the digital era. The success of these initiatives is evident in increased employee engagement, loyalty, and ultimately, the ability to drive digital innovation and transformation.