Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing how organizations operate and how people work. One of the most intriguing and challenging developments is the possibility that AI could not only assist or cooperate with but also lead humans in formal or informal leadership roles. This raises important questions: Under what conditions would people accept AI as a leader? And what are the psychological, social, and organizational effects of such a shift?
The project "AI IN THE LEAD? WHEN, WHY, AND HOW AI LEADERSHIP WILL (NOT) WORK" explored these questions by examining whether, when, and how AI systems can take on leadership functions—such as motivating teams, building relationships, and influencing performance—and under which circumstances this would be helpful or harmful. As AI moves into roles traditionally associated with human judgment and social interaction, understanding its leadership potential is essential for navigating the future of work. Understanding how AI impacts leadership dynamics is essential not only for researchers and businesses, but also for educators, policymakers, and designers of future workplace technologies.
The project focused on three main goals:
1. To study how different AI leadership styles (such as charismatic or relationship-oriented) affect employees’ motivation, satisfaction, and performance.
2. To examine how these effects change based on the type of task and how long people interact with the AI.
3. To identify individual and situational differences—such as trust in AI, worker age, or experience—that shape how people respond to AI-led leadership.
Rooted in psychology, organizational behavior, management, and computer science, the project connects directly to EU strategic priorities under “A Europe Fit for the Digital Age” and “An Economy that Works for People.” It aims to support the ethical, human-centered use of AI in leadership, ensuring future technologies promote trust, fairness, and well-being at work.
