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- 45% of business leaders expect AI agents to be integrated into workflows within a year, while only 30% of employees share this view
- Only 22% of leaders are confident in their organization’s ability to cultivate a future-ready workforce
- Only 36% of leaders say their talent strategy clearly articulates how AI creates opportunities for employees, and only 39% involve employees directly in job redesign
ZurichMay 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Through a global study covering 2,000 senior executives across 13 countries, the Adecco Group has found that companies are accelerating the adoption of AI applications, but many lack clear leadership planning, employee trust, and capability building to translate technology deployment into measurable outcomes. These respondents manage over 8.6 million employees, offering a high-level perspective on how AI is reshaping strategy, skills, and organizational readiness.
The report, titled “The Human Premium: Leadership Beyond the Algorithm,” reveals that 45% of business leaders expect AI agents to be integrated into workflows within the next 12 months. However, only 36% of leaders say their talent strategy clearly reflects that AI will create opportunities for employees, indicating a widening gap between AI vision and employee readiness.
Denis Machuel, CEO of the Adecco Group, said:
“AI may evolve at the speed of software development, but winning trust within an organization follows the pace of people. Companies that overlook this gap will struggle to turn pilot projects into tangible results. The ultimate winners will be those that are adept at leveraging technology while being transparent, accountable, and providing employees with a clear path to adaptation. The fundamental responsibility of business leaders is to ensure that people and technology can advance together.”
Click here to view the above study and read the full press release.