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

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.

“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…