Roche Swiss Admin Day 2025: Admin meets algorithm

On 14 May 2025, we held our second Roche Swiss Admin Day – an exclusive event for assistants that provided a forum for open exchange, innovative ideas and in-depth discussions.

In a working environment that is increasingly changing due to the influence of artificial intelligence (AI), this day offered a valuable opportunity to focus on key questions: What opportunities and challenges does AI bring for assistant professions?

The event not only gave us the opportunity for personal reflection, but also to actively shape the future of the assistant profession. Exciting presentations and lively discussions raised questions that could permanently change the field of work for assistants: Will AI support assistants or even replace them completely?

An inspiring group of experts shared valuable insights and perspectives:

• Florian Schroeder, the well-known satirist, spoke impressively about how we can take responsibility in a world that is increasingly shaped by technology. He encouraged us to actively shape our lives and our work – even in the face of AI.

• Thomas Schinecker, CEO of Roche, spoke about Roche's strategic direction and the importance of AI for our company. He described AI as an important driver of innovation – but also made it clear that it cannot replace human intuition and judgement.

• Angela Rudin-Colucci, an expert in compliance, explained how AI and technology not only offer opportunities, but must also comply with regulatory requirements in order to be used in a compliant and responsible manner.

• Dr. Jakub Samochowiec, from Gottlieb-Duttweiler-Institute, highlighted the transformative power of AI and emphasised the areas in which the human mind remains irreplaceable. He stressed that autonomy and control are essential for the meaningful use of AI.

• Jürg Erismann, Site Head Basel/Kaiseraugst, illustrated how AI is helping to optimise and simplify work processes at our sites – a crucial development for the future of our working environment.

In a subsequent panel discussion moderated by Mirjam Teboe, experts such as Clemens Schmid, Andy Wenger, Angela Rudin-Colucci and Dr Jakub Samochowiec shared their experiences. They discussed how AI is already being used at Roche and what impact this is having on society and geopolitical relations. Of particular note is the key message from Dr Jakub Samochowiec: ‘To use AI effectively, we need autonomy – but convenience tempts us to relinquish control.’

At the end of the day, Philip Pisa, Head of Roche AI Strategy, gave us an insight into future developments in the field of artificial intelligence. He explained how Roche is integrating AI responsibly and effectively into its corporate strategy in order to actively shape the way we work in the future.

The Roche Swiss Admin Day 2025 was a day full of thought-provoking ideas, valuable perspectives and inspiring discussions. One thing became clear: the future of assistants is not only shaped by technology, but also by a clear stance on how these technologies are used. We are excited to see how we can work together to responsibly harness the opportunities offered by AI and actively shape the future.

Special thanks go to our six-member organisation team, who have worked with great dedication over the past two years to plan and implement the Admin Day. They have put their heart and soul into their work, always with the aim of creating an inspiring and enriching event for their colleagues. Their hard work deserves recognition and will serve as motivation for future projects.