Modernizing Salesforce with AI: Strategic Lessons from Velu Palani’s Enterprise Playbook

**How McKesson’s Velu Palani Leads CRM Transformation with AI, Frameworks & Strategic Vision**

In this episode of *The Heartbeat Podcast*, host Mike Sommer sits down with **Velu Palani**, Vice President and Salesforce IT Service Leader at **McKesson**, one of the largest healthcare companies in the world.

Velu shares hard-won insights from leading enterprise **CRM transformations**, implementing **Salesforce at scale**, and integrating **AI-driven frameworks** to deliver customer-centric outcomes. From lessons learned in the trenches to building scalable foundations for AI, this episode is packed with **strategic advice** for **CIOs, IT directors, and digital transformation leaders**.

We also explore Velu’s passion for mentoring, community learning, and the evolving role of technology leadership in the enterprise.

**🎧 Whether you're rethinking your CRM stack or exploring AI in Salesforce, this is a must-watch for modern tech leaders.**
**🎧 Whether you're rethinking your CRM stack or exploring AI in Salesforce, this is a must-watch for modern tech leaders.**

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🔹 **Timestamps:**
00:00 – Introduction to the Heartbeat Podcast

00:12 – Meet Velu Palani: A Leader in CRM Strategy

01:13 – The Journey of Writing a Book

02:10 – Velu's Path to IT Leadership

04:02 – The Importance of Frameworks in CRM

06:16 – Lessons from the Trenches

12:31 – Foundational Elements for AI in Salesforce

15:34 – Defining CRM Success

17:37 – Fostering Innovation and Best Practices

21:12 – Advice to the Younger Self

22:14 – Continuous Learning and Giving Back

23:20 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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