How managers are redefining their role in the age of artificial intelligence and successfully leading teams through digital change.
Artificial intelligence and leadership: new paths for companies and employees
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in companies is no longer a future scenario. AI is fundamentally changing business models, processes and job profiles. This development poses a particular challenge for managers, as they are required to actively drive and shape the introduction and use of AI and to take their employees along with them on this journey.
The right use of AI opens up opportunities for companies AND employees
The use of AI opens up a wide range of applications: Analyses and decision-making are accelerated, processes are made more efficient and innovative business models are created. For employees, AI tools can take over routine tasks and free up time for value-adding and relevant tasks. Companies should not only look at the technological benefits, but also at how AI affects the work culture and teamwork.
The involvement of employees is important here: Only if they are involved in the introduction process from an early stage on and understand their role in the digital future can fears be reduced and a positive attitude towards AI be created.
The role of the manager: providing support and guidance
Managers play a key role in the successful introduction of AI. They not only have to set the strategic framework but also empower and motivate their employees to adopt AI-supported technologies.
How can managers support the use of AI?
- Provision of training and resources: Employees will be familiarised with the basics of AI and specific tools through targeted training. This is also standardised by the EU AI Act, which has made it mandatory to ensure competent handling of AI systems since 1 February 2025.
- Involvement and communication: Transparent communication about the benefits and effects of AI promotes trust and acceptance. Employees should be actively involved in the introduction process.
- Technical support: Managers should ensure that technical challenges are resolved quickly, and that support is available.
- Fostering a learning culture: An environment that rewards lifelong learning and openness to new technologies is crucial.
- Data protection and ethics: Managers must ensure that AI is used responsibly and in accordance with data protection regulations.
What skills do managers need in the world of AI?
The demands on managers are changing in times of digital transformation. In addition to traditional leadership skills, new competences are becoming increasingly important:
- Technological understanding: managers should have a basic understanding of AI technologies in order to be able to assess and communicate their potential.
- High willingness to learn: The ability to continuously acquire new knowledge is essential.
- Strong communication skills: Complex technical content must be communicated clearly and comprehensibly.
- Change management skills: Managers must manage change and support employees as they adapt.
- Strategic thinking: The use of AI should always be considered in the context of the company’s overarching goals.
- Empathy and sensitivity: Employees have different digital types and needs – empathetic leadership helps to take these differences into account.
- Awareness of data protection and ethics: A sensitive approach to data and ethical issues is essential.
Picture of the future: Where will companies and managers be in 2-5 years?
The professional use of AI will continue to change the world of work in the coming years. Companies that develop an AI strategy early on and consistently involve their employees will be able to secure their long-term competitiveness.
For managers, this means that they will act less as traditional instructors and more as coaches and enablers. Their task will be to provide their teams with guidance and support so that they can make the most of the opportunities offered by AI.
Conclusion: AI as an opportunity for leadership and collaboration
AI is fundamentally changing the world of work – and therefore also the role of managers. Active and supportive leadership is crucial for taking employees along on the path to utilising AI and promoting innovation.
Those who see AI as a tool for relieving pressure and further development, while at the same time focussing on transparent communication and further training, are laying the foundations for a successful transformation. The future belongs to companies and managers who see AI not as a threat, but as an opportunity for innovation, creativity, growth and collaboration.
Article written by Dr. Bernhard Winkler, MBA CMC, CFR Global Executive Search Austria
Photos: TRESCON, shutterstock