A new study has revealed that while artificial intelligence (AI) is enhancing the reputations of technology leaders worldwide, it is also intensifying the pressure they face. According to the Enterprise Horizons 2024 report, commissioned by Expereo and conducted by IDC, 60% of global technology leaders reported that their focus on AI had improved their personal standing within organisations. However, 64% also found it stressful to meet the rising technology demands driven by AI innovation.
The report, which surveyed senior technology executives from large global enterprises, highlights both the opportunities and challenges posed by AI. While many leaders are excited about the potential of AI to transform their industries, they also express concern over unrealistic expectations from their boards. Nearly half (47%) of respondents said their boards had overly ambitious demands for the impact AI could have on international business performance.
AI is not only elevating the profile of technology leaders but also increasing the demands placed upon them. A notable 39% of those surveyed said that their job had become more stressful or negative due to the added expectations resulting from their AI expertise. This ‘AI-anxiety’ appears to stem from a combination of heightened visibility within the organisation and the pressure to deliver transformative results.
The rise of AI is also changing the dynamic of leadership roles within IT departments. The report found that 40% of respondents believe a new position, Chief AI Officer (CAIO), will take over many of the responsibilities currently held by Chief Information Officers (CIOs) within two years. As a result, 38% of technology leaders worry that AI could replace their own roles or those of their teams. Additionally, the adoption of AI-driven automation is expected to impact other sectors, with 46% of respondents anticipating that increased automation could displace roles outside of IT.
Despite these challenges, technology leaders remain optimistic. The majority (68%) said this is the most exciting time to be in their field, and 71% expressed confidence that their current technology strategies would support business growth and efficiency improvements. However, the demands on their roles are expected to increase. As the scope of digital transformation expands, technology leaders will be tasked with generating digital revenue and modernising IT infrastructure.
Currently, only 7% of global respondents are required to demonstrate a return on investment (ROI) to justify budget increases to their boards. However, this figure is expected to rise to 12% within the next two years, reflecting growing expectations for technology leaders to directly contribute to the financial success of their organisations.
Ben Elms, Chief Executive Officer at Expereo, commented: “Technology leaders are at the forefront of innovation and transformation in their organisations, but they also face significant challenges from their boards and business leaders. It’s crucial that CIOs are aligned with their CEOs to ensure they receive the necessary support from stakeholders and external partners, enabling them to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape.”
The findings underscore the dual nature of AI’s impact on technology leadership—bringing both opportunities for growth and increasing the pressure to deliver results. As businesses continue to invest in AI and digital transformation, the role of the CIO will continue to evolve.
For more information, the full IDC report is available at Expereo’s website.
