Tech Chief Regina Salazar Is Driving Digital Innovation At Novelis

Novelis' digital transformation, spearheaded by Chief Digital and Information Officer Regina Salazar, has modernized IT operations and implemented a forward-thinking digital strategy. Over three and a half years, Salazar has prepared the company for a future driven by automation, data, and AI.

A Unified Approach to Global IT and Digital Strategies

Salazar's leadership encompasses all aspects of technology, from infrastructure and cybersecurity to digital innovation and analytics. Novelis utilizes a federated IT model, combining four regional IT leaders aligned with regional business presidents for localized support, and six global capability teams managing enterprise architecture, cybersecurity, data analytics, and more for consistent global services. This hybrid approach ensures both regional flexibility and global alignment.

Laying the Foundation for Transformation

Initially, Salazar prioritized aligning regional and global strategies and integrating traditional IT with emerging digital functions. A business relationship model was implemented to pair every business leader with an IT partner. Further strengthening the foundation involved formalizing enterprise architecture, establishing a modern project management office, and bolstering cybersecurity. These actions created a unified team ready for a three-year transformation.

A Scalable Data Strategy and the Ethical Use of AI

Leveraging Novelis' data-rich environment, Salazar and her team expanded the "Plant of the Future" initiative. This program pairs IT and business experts to identify, pilot, and deploy high-value data use cases across all plants. The 2021 launch of Vision 3x30, a strategic framework with ambitious 2030 goals, hinges on becoming a data-driven organization. This is achieved through:

• A cutting-edge technology stack
• Enhanced data governance
• Company-wide data literacy

The results are impressive, with AI-driven insights boosting EBITDA by 3% to 4%.

This data strategy fuels AI initiatives, improving safety and productivity. Computer vision systems in manufacturing detect hazards, alert workers, and gather data for safety analysis. AI-powered predictive maintenance minimizes downtime, and vision-based systems automate precision cutting, reducing waste and increasing output. These advancements significantly improve quality, safety, and cost control.

Novelis explores generative AI through evaluating vendor tools, experimenting with platforms like Microsoft Copilot and Moveworks, and developing a secure internal LLM using Azure. This streamlines tasks across help desks, HR, and business analysis. Salazar emphasizes generative AI's potential as a powerful tool for increased efficiency and problem-solving, while highlighting the importance of human oversight and responsible innovation.

The Factory of the Future: Innovation in Action

Novelis' new Alabama facility embodies its forward-thinking approach. Designed for beverage packaging and automotive markets, it incorporates renewable energy, recycled water, and zero-waste processes. Salazar's team used a simulation model to optimize material flow and layout. This facility increases can production by 15 billion annually and integrates Novelis' latest technologies, including a new manufacturing execution system replacing legacy systems and setting a standard for other plants.

Robotics: Enhancing Safety and Inspection

Novelis pilots robotics for back-office automation and mobile inspection robots in manufacturing. Robotic dogs inspect hazardous areas, collecting more data and enabling real-time analysis, improving inspection quality and frequency while enhancing safety and efficiency.

From automating tasks to improving safety, quality, and sustainability, Novelis is transforming how technology supports its mission. With a strong foundation and innovative spirit, Salazar and her team are leading the next phase of industrial transformation.

Peter High is President of Metis Strategy, a business and IT advisory firm. He is the author of three bestselling books, including Getting to Nimble, and hosts the Technovation podcast. He is a frequent speaker at global conferences. Follow him on Twitter @PeterAHigh.

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