The 2025 CEO AI Management Study by Kearney and Futurum reveals that many CEOs face a critical moment in their AI decision-making, affecting leadership strategies, management, and company culture. A study, based on surveys and interviews with executives from companies earning over $1 billion annually, highlights a growing divide between AI optimism at the executive level and uncertainty within organizations. While 78 percent of CEOs express confidence in guiding AI adoption, only 28 percent of mid-level managers share this optimism. Established companies prioritize long-term AI sustainability, customer satisfaction, and supply chain resilience, while digital-native firms focus on rapid experimentation and data-driven hiring. However, many organizations struggle with fragmented data, integration challenges, and a lack of AI expertise, limiting the impact of their initiatives.
The study also finds that CEOs who lead AI strategies with a top-down approach often see fewer measurable results compared to those who delegate decision-making across specialized teams. Only 19 percent of CEOs position AI for transformative growth, while most focus on short-term operational efficiencies. Leaders recognize the importance of AI governance, change management, and data readiness but often lack structured frameworks to maximize AI’s potential. Despite minimal customer demand for AI-driven solutions, over half of companies are investing in pilot programs to prepare for future shifts. The research highlights that organizations with a systematic and well-aligned AI strategy achieve better results, reinforcing the need for thoughtful planning and execution.
