AI Future of Work Panel: EU-Startups Summit 2026

Jan de Vries · 2026-04-13

Artificial intelligence isn't just coming—it's already here, reshaping how companies hire, manage teams, and grow. From automating routine tasks to transforming customer experiences, AI is redefining what work means across every industry. For founders and operators, understanding this shift isn't just helpful; it's becoming essential for survival and success. At the EU-Startups Summit 2026, we're diving deep into this transformation. A dedicated panel will explore how AI influences the future of work, what it means for you as a leader, and where the biggest opportunities—and challenges—are hiding. It's a conversation you can't afford to miss if you're building or scaling a business today. ### Meet the Experts Shaping the Conversation We've gathered an incredible group of founders and leaders who are building the future, not just talking about it. They'll share practical insights you can use immediately. - **Adrienne McCarthy, CEO of Shireburn**: With over 25 years in HR and leadership, she's a rare blend of organizational psychologist and tech strategist. She helps companies align their people strategies with digital innovation. Since 2026, she's been steering Shireburn toward AI-enabled business solutions, including next-gen ERP systems that boost decision-making and operational efficiency. - **Fritz Trott, Founder & CEO of Zenjob**: For the past decade, Fritz has been building technology for the future of flexible work. He started Zenjob back in 2016 and grew it into a leading platform connecting businesses with flexible talent. His background in marketplaces and customer experience gives him a grounded, practical view on how tech is reshaping labor markets. - **Massimiliano Squillace, Founder of Contents.com**: An entrepreneur, investor, and mentor from Milan, Massimiliano is all about AI-driven solutions. He leads Contents.com, a SaaS platform that helps enterprises manage and scale digital content using AI. Having invested in over 50 companies, he brings a wealth of experience in scaling tech businesses through evolving landscapes. - **Zakaria Mansour, Founder & CEO of bsport**: Zakaria runs a SaaS platform that empowers fitness studios with tools for scheduling, memberships, payments, and marketing. Founded in 2018, bsport now supports over 3,000 studios in more than 40 countries with a team of 200+. In 2024, he led the company to secure a Series B round of $32.5 million (converted from €30 million), the largest SaaS investment in its sector in France and Spain at the time. One thing that struck me about these speakers is their hands-on experience. They're not theorists; they're in the trenches every day, figuring out how AI can solve real problems. As one of them put it, *“The goal isn't to replace people, but to amplify human potential with intelligent tools.”* That mindset is crucial. ### Why This Panel Matters for Your Business Look, AI can feel overwhelming. The headlines swing from utopian promises to dystopian warnings. This panel cuts through the noise. You'll get clear perspectives on workforce management, operational scaling, and strategic hiring in an AI-augmented world. These are the folks building the technology at the heart of this shift, and they'll share what's working, what's not, and what's coming next. If you're curious about how AI changes daily operations, talent acquisition, and company growth, this discussion will offer invaluable, actionable takeaways. It's a chance to learn from those who are already navigating this new terrain successfully. ### A Note on Our Supporting Partners The event is proudly supported by organizations committed to fostering innovation. Malta Enterprise, for instance, is Malta's economic development agency. They play a key role in attracting investment and supporting businesses, helping to make Malta a vibrant destination for entrepreneurs. Their work in cultivating a supportive startup ecosystem is pivotal for emerging businesses looking for a foothold in Europe. Another major supporter is the M. Demajo Group, a leading business player in Malta with a long history of success and community impact. Their involvement underscores the collaborative effort needed to drive the future of work and technology forward. Ready to get the insights that will help you future-proof your business? This is where that journey begins. Join us for a conversation that promises to be as practical as it is visionary.