The executive team sets the tone for AI adoption across the entire organisation. When leaders lack AI literacy, the result is either paralysis (no AI adoption due to fear of risk) or chaos (uncontrolled adoption without governance).
AI training for executives is fundamentally different from training for operational teams. Executives do not need to learn how to write prompts or use specific tools. They need to understand how AI changes their industry, what strategic decisions are required, how to govern AI responsibly, and where to invest.
The reality is more nuanced. AI will change how work gets done, but wholesale job replacement is rare. Executives who understand this can focus on upskilling rather than cutting headcount.
Most companies do not need custom AI models. Off-the-shelf tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and industry-specific AI platforms address 80-90% of business AI use cases. Custom development is only necessary for highly specific, data-intensive applications.
AI adoption is fundamentally a people and process challenge. The technology is readily available. The hard part is changing workflows, managing risks, building capabilities, and sustaining adoption.
While experimentation is valuable, structured AI training accelerates adoption by 6-12 months. Companies that invest in training avoid common pitfalls, deploy AI more safely, and see faster ROI.
| Format | Duration | Investment |
|---|---|---|
| Executive Briefing | Half-day (3 hours) | Overview and Q&A |
| Leadership Workshop | Full-day (6 hours) | Deep dive + strategy exercise |
| Board Retreat Module | 2 hours | Governance-focused session |
| CEO Peer Circle | 4 sessions × 2 hours | Peer learning with other CEOs |
Companies where executives lack AI literacy typically experience:
Executive AI training is eligible for the same funding as all corporate training:
Executives should understand four key areas: (1) how AI is changing their industry and competitive landscape, (2) strategic decisions around AI investment, build-vs-buy, and talent, (3) AI governance responsibilities including data privacy, bias, and risk management, and (4) how to measure and communicate AI ROI to the board.
Executive AI training is typically shorter and more strategic than team-level training. Half-day briefings (3 hours) provide a solid overview. Full-day workshops (6 hours) include strategy exercises and implementation planning. Board retreat modules can be as short as 2 hours.
Yes. Board members need training focused on governance, fiduciary responsibilities, and risk oversight. Topics include AI risk categories, data privacy regulations, liability considerations, and questions board members should ask management about AI programmes.
