Cisco's HR chief says AI and ML roles are 'really hard' to fill. Getting execs on the phone helps.

""The qualified pool is so small, and the demand is so high," Jones said. Part of that is because "everyone" is currently hiring for those positions right now. She said that every forward-thinking organization needs AI in its products and also in its internal IT teams. Those jobs also require a "slightly different level of specialization," she said. AI and ML Ops roles typically involve automating and streamlining IT operations, the company said. The strongest candidates are those with experience working in AI, ML, and operations, and those who have a track record of developing successful products."

""We're looking for people who have done this, who have been there, and have a good story to tell," Jones said, adding that she wants to know about what they built. Getting execs on the phone As the AI talent wars continue, Jones said that one factor that makes a "really big difference" is having leaders at the company talk directly to talent. She said that shouldn't reflect negatively on recruiters, but in the current landscape, there's "a lot of AI washing going on," which makes it hard to differentiate the real wins."

"Specialized AI talent can be hard to come by - and companies are jockeying to scoop them up. In the midst of an ongoing battle for elite talent, Cisco's chief people officer says that AI and machine-learning operations positions are "really hard" to fill at the company."

A small qualified pool and high demand make AI and machine-learning operations roles difficult to fill. Every forward-looking organization is hiring for these roles for product and internal IT needs. AI and ML Ops positions require specialized skills in automating and streamlining IT operations. Strong candidates combine AI, ML, and operations experience and a record of building successful products. Cisco prioritizes candidates with demonstrable, product-focused experience and engages leaders directly with talent. Executive involvement helps distinguish genuine experience from superficial claims amid widespread "AI washing" in the market.

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