Ian Barkin, a renowned technologist and industry visionary, is known as a future of work expert.

Future of Work Expert Ian Barkin is a Renowned Technologist and Industry Visionary

Ian ardently champions the 'worker of the future' concept, firmly believing that RPA, AI, and innovation have the potential to empower organizations to unlock the full capabilities of their workforce and undergo transformative change through a process-first approach.

By Donna Joseph
Nov 12, 2023 4:23 AM

Ian Barkin, a renowned technologist and industry visionary

Photo by SBR

Leveraging over two decades of expertise in digital operations, robotic process automation (RPA), intelligent automation, business process outsourcing (BPO), and the dynamic landscape of work, Ian Barkin emerges as a seasoned leader and innovator in his field. He has crafted multiple courses on RPA and related topics for LinkedIn Learning, extending his influence to a global audience of learners and professionals.

Additionally, Ian holds advisory roles with prominent companies specializing in process intelligence and low-code/no-code platforms, specifically Skan.ai and PROCESIO. In these capacities, he actively contributes to shaping their vision, refining strategies, and enhancing their market presence and impact.

As the founding partner at 2B Ventures, Ian plays a pivotal role in propelling various initiatives forward. His co-founding of Symphony Ventures, a global leader in RPA and intelligent automation services, where he assumed the role of Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer, resulted in its acquisition by SYKES in 2018.

Ian Barkin ardently advocates for the 'worker of the future' paradigm. Rooted in his belief in the transformative potential of RPA, AI, and innovation, he emphasizes that organizations can unleash the full capabilities of their workforce, experiencing a profound metamorphosis by embracing a process-centric approach.

Bringing his expertise as an innovator and transformative leader to SYKES, Ian Barkin serves as the Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer of the company. He ardently champions the 'worker of the future' concept, firmly believing that RPA, AI, and innovation have the potential to empower organizations to unlock the full capabilities of their workforce and undergo transformative change through a process-first approach. Ian was one of the founders of Symphony Ventures, a company specializing in intelligent automation (IA) and robotic process automation (RPA). SYKES acquired Symphony Ventures in 2018.

Furthermore, Barkin is the host of OneTAKE, a video series covering emerging technology, digitization, and the future of work.

Educationally, Barkin holds an MBA from MIT Sloan School of Management and a BA in Economics and Psychology from Middlebury College. Additionally, he co-authored the best-selling book "Intelligent Automation: Welcome to the World of Hyperautomation" with Pascal Bornet and Jochen Wirtz.

Our Standards: Associated Press Stylebook

What To Read Next

Orchard Robotics Brings AI to Farming, Optimizes Every Crop

FruitScope OS gives growers a complete view of their operations and integrates seamlessly with existing farm processes to deliver a unified management experience.

Dec. 24, 2025 • By Donna Joseph

AI and Solar Robotics Revolutionize Weeding, Slash Chemical Use on Farms

I really believe this is the biggest thing we can do to improve human health.

Dec. 24, 2025 • By Donna Joseph

Twist Bioscience Expands Synthetic DNA Capabilities and Enables Faster Discovery across Multiple Fields

The faster our customers succeed, the better for the world, and Twist Bioscience is uniquely positioned to help accelerate these efforts. We have created a revolutionary silicon platform that offers precision at a scale unavailable anywhere else.