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Over Half of Boardroom Leaders Fear AI is the Biggest Threat to Their Business

over half of boardroom leaders fear ai is the biggest threat to their business business manchester

Over half of boardroom leaders fear AI is the biggest direct threat to their organisation. This concern coincides with ongoing discussions around AI regulation in the UK.

Nearly half of these leaders also express serious concerns about the lack of tech innovation within their companies. Research from The IN Group reveals that the focus on generative AI is second only to cyber-related issues.

The Growing Concern Over AI

Over half of boardroom leaders now consider AI the biggest direct threat to their organisation. This sentiment comes amid ongoing discussions about AI regulation in the UK.

Furthermore, almost half (44 per cent) of these leaders are seriously worried about the lack of technological innovation within their businesses. According to research from The IN Group, the significance of generative AI comes right behind cyber issues, often intersecting with the increase in AI-powered cyber-attacks.

Lagging Behind in Innovation

A notable 54 per cent of CEOs admitted they were falling behind in terms of innovation. Consequently, 62 per cent are prioritising the hiring of AI experts to leverage the strides made in AI technology.

Rachael Hays, Transformation Director for Definia, a part of The IN Group, highlighted the importance of understanding the business case for AI. She mentioned that companies need to ensure their data infrastructure is solid before adopting these advanced technologies.

Cyber Threats and AI

Hays also pointed out the evolving risks associated with AI. The rise of AI deepfakes allows for malicious uses of advanced technology, making it critical for boardrooms to grasp these risks before employing AI advancements.

Moreover, as the tech landscape evolves, so do the cyber threats. The overlap between AI and cybersecurity remains a significant concern for many organisations.

Understanding these threats is crucial. The boardroom must comprehend the full extent of such risks to effectively utilise AI advancements.

Expert Opinions

Professor Alexeis Garcia Perez of Aston Business School noted that AI has the potential to drive business innovation, but there’s a tangible concern about its disruptive impact on traditional business models and employment. This concern is pushing organisations in the US and Germany to recruit AI experts urgently.

Perez’s perspective underscores the global urgency and strategic focus on harnessing AI capabilities responsibly. The emphasis on responsible and effective integration of AI technology is becoming paramount.

AI in the Business Landscape

The boardroom leaders’ prioritisation of AI experts is not just for immediate needs but for long-term strategic positioning as well. The balancing act between innovation and risk management requires careful consideration.

Meanwhile, discussions about AI regulation in the UK are intensifying. These regulatory conversations play a pivotal role in the broader adoption and integration of AI technologies. They shape the landscape, within which businesses operate.

The Regulatory Environment

The ongoing debates around AI regulation in the UK hold significant importance for businesses. Organisations must navigate these regulatory waters to successfully implement AI in their practices. The regulatory environment can either accelerate or hinder AI adoption.

Understanding and adapting to the regulatory landscape becomes essential. Businesses must stay abreast of these changes to harness AI effectively.


The growing apprehension towards AI among boardroom leaders highlights a significant challenge in today’s business environment.

Addressing these fears through informed decision-making and strategic hiring of AI experts may help organisations innovate responsibly.

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