Introduction to Novelis
Novelis, a global leader in aluminum recycling and rolled product manufacturing, plays a pivotal role across a diverse array of industries, including automotive, aerospace, beverage packaging, and specialties. With an estimated $17 billion in annual revenue and 33 manufacturing facilities across nine countries, the company is deeply committed to sustainability and the circular economy. As the Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO), Regla Salazar, has led a strategic journey to modernize technology and integrate a digital strategy into the organization, addressing the transformative impact of automation, data, and AI.
Global IT and Digital Strategy
Salazar’s role includes managing the modernization of IT operations across all regions. She coordinates with regional leaders to ensure regional strategies are aligned with global goals, while also establishing strong internal capabilities to deliver consistent services. This federated model allows for regional agility combined with global coordination, fostering alignment across the complex operations of the company. By integrating IT with other digital functions, Salazar has laid a robust foundation for Novi’s transformation journey, setting the stage for a sustained and scalable digital transformation journey over the next three years.
Centrally Plying the Future
In 2021, Novelis launched Vision 3×30, a strategic framework targeting 2030 with ambitious goal of doubling EBITDA per company. Salazar and her team combined technology, data, and AI to drive impactful advances in safety and productivity. By implementing AI-driven predictive maintenance solutions, they optimized manual processes and reduced downtime. Similarly, in production, they developed vision-based systems for precision cutting and data analytics, leading to increased throughput and efficiency. These innovations were EFFECTIVELY translated into improved safety, leading to a 3% to 4% boost in EBITDA.
Generative AI: Revolutionizing processes
Salazar recognized the vast potential of generative AI, and in response, beginning in 2022, she and her team explored this space across three dimensions: vendor tools, enterprise-wide platforms, and internal LLM. These explorations culminated in advancements that streamline tools like help desks and business analysis. Despite the novelty, they also emphasized the importance of human oversight and responsible innovation.
Novelis Beyond the Event Horizon
The Alabama facility exemplifies the company’s strategic vision for a next-generation industry. Leveraging its unique platform, the plant, which integrates Renewable Energy and Zero Waste practices, offers a glimpse into scalable manufacturing solutions. With state-of-the-art technology and improved safety systems, it represents a paradigm shift in efficiency and quality.
- acosing the future*
Examining automatonic processes, impacts of robots, and opportunities in RPA and mobile inspection, Salazar highlights that these innovations not only enhance productivity but also underpin sustainability and safety. The company’s journey thus far is beginning to reveal the relentless evolution necessary to meet future challenges and Emerging opportunities, continually building on its legacy while exploring new frontiers.
