The transformative role of artificial intelligence in leadership and management development: an academic insight

Purpose This study examines the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in leadership and management development, investigating how AI technologies enhance decision-making processes, talent management, and strategic planning within organizations. The research explores the integration of AI into leadership development programs while maintaining essential human elements of leadership. Design/methodology/approach The study employs a theoretical framework analysis focusing on adaptive learning, predictive analytics, natural language processing, and cognitive computing in leadership development. It examines implementation cases from leading organizations and analyzes current applications through case studies of successful AI integration in leadership programs. Findings Organizations implementing AI-driven leadership development programs demonstrate significant improvements in management effectiveness and decision-making capabilities. The research reveals that successful integration requires balancing technological innovation with human-centered leadership principles, while addressing potential biases in AI systems through regular monitoring and audits. Practical implications The study provides implementation strategies for organizations to integrate AI in leadership development, emphasizing the importance of robust data governance frameworks, hybrid approaches combining AI analytics with traditional mentoring, and the need for structured decision-making frameworks that merge AI-driven insights with human judgment. Social implications The use of AI in leadership development has the potential to democratize access to learning opportunities, allowing leaders from diverse backgrounds to receive tailored training and insights. This could contribute to reducing inequalities in professional development opportunities, supporting UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10 on reducing inequalities. The use of AI in leadership development has the potential to democratize access to learning opportunities, allowing leaders from diverse backgrounds to receive tailored training and insights. This could contribute to reducing inequalities in professional development opportunities, supporting UN SDG 10 on reducing inequalities. Originality/value This research contributes to the emerging field of AI-augmented leadership by providing a comprehensive analysis of how organizations can effectively leverage AI technologies while maintaining authentic human connection in leadership development. It offers novel insights into the future direction of leadership development through immersive learning environments.