AI Is Changing the Skills Every Leader Needs. Several of my current clients are implementing AI across their organizations—transforming how staff and leaders work every day. As this technology takes hold, leaders and anyone who influences others must master a new set of competencies to set direction and inspire action across the organization. These skills aren’t optional; they’re essential for thriving in the AI-enabled workplace.
1. AI Vision & Strategy Setting
- Articulating a compelling vision for how AI will transform the organization
- Aligning AI initiatives with overall business strategy and mission
- Prioritizing investments and sequencing adoption intelligently
2. Ethical and Responsible AI Stewardship
- Understanding high-level issues of bias, transparency, explainability, and accountability
- Establishing organizational principles for ethical AI use
- Ensuring compliance with evolving regulations and norms
3. Culture Building for AI Adoption
- Creating psychological safety for experimentation and learning
- Encouraging a culture that embraces augmentation, not replacement
- Leading by example in using AI tools strategically
4. Ecosystem Orchestration
- Building partnerships with vendors, academia, regulators, and other stakeholders
- Understanding where to build vs. buy vs. partner on AI capabilities
- Anticipating shifts in value chains and industry structure due to AI
5. Strategic Talent Transformation
- Anticipating skill shifts and designing reskilling strategies at scale
- Redefining roles, career pathways, and organizational design for an AI-enabled future
- Creating incentives that reward innovation and adaptability
6. Governance and Risk Oversight
- Establishing AI governance structures, roles, and accountability systems
- Ensuring robust data infrastructure and cybersecurity for AI initiatives
- Overseeing scenario planning for AI risks and disruptions
7. Leading Through Ambiguity and Acceleration
- Making strategic choices in rapidly evolving technological environments
- Managing the balance between speed and control
- Communicating a steady, confident vision even when outcomes are uncertain
If you’re leading a significant internal change initiative and want to ensure success, let’s talk. For 30 years, I’ve helped leaders drive complex transformations—and my approach is fully updated for today’s AI-driven world. Reach out if you’d like expert guidance to accelerate progress and avoid costly missteps.
