Cox Auto CIO: Leading with AI & Digital Transformation | CIO 100

by Chief Editor

Cox Automotive’s Marianne Johnson on the AI-Powered Future of Work

The role of the Chief Product Officer is undergoing a significant transformation, demanding new skills, and responsibilities. This is according to Marianne Johnson, EVP & Chief Product Officer at Cox Automotive, speaking ahead of her participation in the CIO 100 Leadership Live Atlanta conference on March 5th at The Westin Buckhead Atlanta.

The Rise of “AI-First” Strategies

Cox Automotive is embracing an “AI first” initiative, positioning itself at the forefront of a trend where most organizations are still in the early stages of implementing AI agents. McKinsey research indicates that only 23% of organizations are actively scaling agents within their businesses, and even then, deployment is often limited to one or two functions.

Johnson envisions a future where humans and AI agents “co-work” to enhance software development, refinement, and operation. This collaborative approach represents a fundamental shift in how technology is built and maintained.

Tech-Enabled Business Transformation: A Panel Discussion

Johnson will be participating in a panel discussion at the CIO 100 Leadership Live Atlanta conference, focusing on tech-enabled business transformation. The event brings together IT leaders for discussions on innovation, talent retention, and digital transformation strategies.

The conference offers a platform for candid, peer-driven conversations on the challenges and opportunities facing technology leaders today. Attendees can explore the agenda, speaker list, and awards information at the event website.

Beyond Automation: The Agentic AI Revolution

The move towards agentic AI – where AI systems can act autonomously to achieve specific goals – is reshaping industries. Cox Automotive, with brands like Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book, is preparing for a future where AI agents are integral to its operations.

This isn’t simply about automating existing processes. It’s about fundamentally rethinking how work is done, leveraging AI to unlock new levels of efficiency and innovation.

FAQ

What is “AI-first”? An “AI-first” strategy prioritizes the use of artificial intelligence in all aspects of a business, from product development to customer service.

What is agentic AI? Agentic AI refers to AI systems that can independently pursue goals and take actions without constant human intervention.

Where is the CIO 100 Leadership Live Atlanta conference being held? The conference is being held on March 5, 2026, at The Westin Buckhead Atlanta.

How can I register for the CIO 100 Leadership Live Atlanta conference? You can register at the event website.

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