CEOs are taking AI more seriously than ever: Survey

Across the world, CEOs are feeling mounting pressure to deliver real results from artificial intelligence investments, according to a new global survey by Dataiku and The Harris Poll. The study, which surveyed 900 CEOs, reveals that AI is no longer viewed as an experimental technology but as a defining leadership challenge with direct consequences for top executives.

The report found that nearly 80 per cent of CEOs fear their jobs could be at risk if their AI strategies fail this year. More than four in five respondents also believe another CEO could lose their position because of a poorly managed AI rollout or a major AI-related crisis. The findings reflect how rapidly expectations around AI adoption have intensified inside boardrooms.

Business leaders say investors and company boards are demanding measurable returns on AI spending. Around 72 per cent of US CEOs admitted they are under pressure to prove that AI investments are improving productivity, efficiency, or revenue growth. Many executives now see AI performance as a direct indicator of leadership capability.

At the same time, confidence in the technology remains uncertain. The survey highlights growing concern over inaccurate AI outputs, legal risks, and governance failures. Several CEOs also expressed anxiety over employees using unauthorised AI tools, often referred to as shadow AI, which could expose companies to security and compliance risks.

Interestingly, the study shows that fears around AI have shifted. Instead of worrying about falling behind competitors, many CEOs are now more concerned about overspending on tools that may not deliver long-term value. About 65 per cent of respondents said they fear over-investing in AI more than missing out on the technology altogether.

The findings underline a major shift in corporate culture, where artificial intelligence has become both a business opportunity and a high-stakes test of executive leadership.