AI adoption that delivers: Leadership decisions that matter

As organisations move beyond AI pilots and experimentation, what leadership decisions determine whether AI delivers long-term value or introduces new risk? In this expert-led panel discussion, University of Cambridge specialists explore the leadership, governance and organisational challenges that emerge as AI adoption scales across businesses and institutions. Hosted by University of Cambridge Online, the session examines the critical questions facing senior leaders today: who owns AI decisions, how accountability is shared, why many AI initiatives struggle to move beyond pilots, and what organisational conditions are required for successful implementation. Drawing on academic research, practical experience and real-world organisational examples, the panel discusses: • What senior leaders often underestimate as AI adoption scales • Where ownership and accountability tend to break down • The leadership decisions that shape whether AI creates value or introduces risk • Why many AI initiatives fail to progress beyond pilot programmes • How judgement, governance and trade-offs are being navigated in practice Explore further AI insights and learning Explore AI resources https://executiveprofessional.cam.ac.uk/ai-leadership/