Tag Archives: FutureOfLeadership

14. The Now, New, and Next of Digital Leadership (AI Substitution)

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Part 14 of 17 of a research-based series exploring AI’s impact on leadership This post summarises the article The Now, New, and Next of Digital Leadership: How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Will Take Over and Change Leadership as We Know It by Van Quaquebeke and Gerpott (2023)

Is human leadership romanticized? Algorithms are not just tools; they are poised to replace core human leadership functions, potentially performing them better. This commentary acts as a “wake-up call”, challenging the consensus that motivational and relational leadership is impervious to AI substitution. The framework details AI’s progression from a tool (NOW) to an advisor (NEW) to eventually full replacement (NEXT). The core finding suggests sophisticated algorithms can effectively embody core leadership characteristics, potentially catering better to employees’ psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness by offering immediate, data-driven, and unbiased feedback. For instance, AI can facilitate social connections by identifying optimal team pairings.

This argument for imminent substitution demands a radical reassessment of leadership scholarship, making critical thinking the key to retaining human control and relevance. Leaders must deploy critical thought to model ethical trade-offs. This means moving beyond simplistic performance outcomes to anticipate complex scenarios, such as when AI might encourage abusive leadership behaviors for the sake of short-term benefits, even if it leads to human suffering. Furthermore, leadership scholars must critically engage with the technical fundamentals of AI to avoid becoming overdependent on technology, risking underdeveloped reasoning capabilities.

The authors, Niels Van Quaquebeke and Fabiola H. Gerpott, suggest that the field risks sleepwalking into an unexamined reality and failing to adjust in time if it does not address the topic of AI substitution candidly. If AI can deliver better motivational outcomes, what is the fundamental moral duty of a human leader who chooses to reject algorithmic advice? Let’s debate.

Reference: Van Quaquebeke, N., & Gerpott, F. H. (2023). The Now, New, and Next of Digital Leadership: How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Will Take Over and Change Leadership as We Know It. Journal of Leadership & Organizational Studies, 30(3), 265–275. https://doi.org/10.1177/15480518231181731

11. The Future of Leadership in the Context of AI and Automation

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Part 11 of 17 of a research-based series exploring AI’s impact on leadership This post summarises the article The Future of Leadership in the Context of Artificial Intelligence and Automation: Navigating Ethical and Operational Challenges by Khoza et al. (2025)

As AI tools take over decision-making, are leaders becoming irrelevant, or are they gaining unprecedented strategic power? This study emphasizes the dual mandate for leaders: to strategically leverage AI for efficiency while diligently addressing ethical dilemmas, particularly algorithmic bias, data privacy, and the risk of diminished human qualities. The key finding highlights that effective leadership requires a specialized set of competencies, notably adaptability, data literacy, emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and a strong ethical foundation. AI-driven tools, such as machine learning and virtual reality, can revolutionize leadership development by providing personalized, real-time feedback and scenario-based training. However, preserving human-centric practices—like trust-building and collaboration—is paramount to ensure AI doesn’t undermine the human element.

The necessity for data literacy essentially redefines the core function of critical thinking for the modern leader. Critical thinking must shift toward rigorously interpreting and acting upon AI-generated insights, ensuring that these data-driven actions align with human ethical standards. The core critical challenge is navigating the complex power structures that emerge when technological accuracy challenges positional authority, ensuring that technological reliance does not lead to the erosion of personal power or the neglect of ethical issues like bias and privacy.

The authors, Nomfundo Zama Khoza, Kenneth Chukwuba, Ebuka Emmanuel Aniebonam, and Lois Dufie Adade, suggest that recommendations emphasize the need for AI ethics training, inclusive leadership practices, and a human-centric approach to AI integration. How do you train for data literacy and emotional intelligence simultaneously, ensuring AI serves human leadership instead of replacing it? Join the conversation.

Reference: Khoza, N. Z., Chukwuba, K., Aniebonam, E. E., & Adade, L. D. (2025). The Future of Leadership in the Context of Artificial Intelligence and Automation: Navigating Ethical and Operational Challenges. British Journal of Business and Psychology Research, 1(1), 52–62. https://doi.org/10.47297/ppibjbpr2025010104