Episode 33: Sustainability and Leveraging AI Artwork

SLU International Business Now: Conversations That Matter

This podcast series has been developed by the Boeing Institute of International Business in the Chaifetz School of Business at Saint Louis University to extend the impact of our programs. In this series, critical thought leaders from around the world address current key business issues. Series guests share their expert perspectives on a variety of topics ranging from post-Brexit Europe to Covid Market Recovery, Geo-Economic Strategies, the Green Deal, and much more. Through the Podcast format, these unique business conversations will reach beyond the classroom to a global audience. Academic and business listeners will have immediate access to first-hand insights and assessments, with the aim of promoting future discussion across these listener communities and encouraging community action. To learn more about the Boeing Institute of International Business and international business academic programs in the Chaifetz School of Business at Saint Louis University, please visit biib.slu.edu.

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SLU International Business Now: Conversations That Matter

Episode 33: Sustainability and Leveraging AI

May 20, 2025 • Boeing Institute of International Business • Season 4 • Episode 9

Join guest host Chris Carril with guests Matt Blakely and Dr. Jeff Heaton as they discuss RGA’s sustainability efforts, responsibility to its community and stakeholders, and leveraging AI to help in those efforts.

Matt Blakely leads RGA’s global philanthropic, volunteerism, and sustainability reporting efforts. Since joining RGA in 2020, Matt and his team have developed and executed enterprise strategies that have enhanced the company’s environmental sustainability and corporate citizenship. As of 2024, more than 60% of RGA employees participate in volunteerism, philanthropy, or sustainability causes. Additionally, RGA offsets 90% of its 2023 Scope 1 and 2 emissions globally.

Jeff Heaton, Vice President, AI Innovation, has over 23 years of experience in insurance underwriting, retrocession, and predictive analytics. He leads a team focused on fueling generative AI (GenAI) innovation across RGA, chairs the AI Council, and provides global advisory expertise on AI adoption. A recognized industry thought leader, Jeff publishes the RGA GenAI Quarterly Update and frequently speaks at SOA, GUAA, and IEEE events. He represents RGA as a board member of Washington University’s Center for Analytics and Business Insights (CABI) and has contributed to academic and medical research.