Talent Trends 2025: How Senior Executives Are Leading the GenAI Revolution

Generative AI (GenAI) is no longer a future consideration for business leaders, it’s already reshaping the way executives work, make decisions and plan their careers. In our latest Talent Trends 2026: Executive & Senior Leadership report, based on the insights of over 4,500 senior leaders, adoption of GenAI is accelerating at the very top of organisations, bringing both opportunities and risks for businesses that want to remain competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.

Executives Are Outpacing the Workforce in GenAI Adoption

In 2025, nearly two-thirds of senior leaders report using GenAI in their roles; a 29% increase compared to last year. Executives are now embracing AI 17% faster than the wider workforce, highlighting a clear trend: leadership teams are no longer just aware of GenAI, they are actively integrating it into their day-to-day decision-making.

The Benefits Are Tangible

The impact of GenAI on executive performance is already evident:

• 80% report increased productivity
• 76% say it improves the quality of their work
• 77% believe it enables them to focus on more meaningful, strategic tasks

These figures suggest that AI is not replacing leaders, it’s enhancing their ability to deliver at a higher level.

Adoption Without Strategy: A Growing Risk

Despite this enthusiasm, many executives remain uncertain about how to maximise GenAI effectively. Two-thirds of leaders say they are primarily using tools recommended by their organisations, suggesting a more reactive than proactive approach.

What’s more, almost a third of executives feel their organisations are not preparing them adequately for AI adoption, with leaders in accounting, finance, industrial & manufacturing, and HR reporting the highest concerns.

This lack of clarity can have serious implications. Over half of senior executives admit that GenAI is influencing their career decisions, and one in four see it as a potential threat to their long-term job security.

From Disruption to Competitive Advantage

A successful AI strategy is key to turning disruption into competitive advantage. Organisations need to hire digitally fluent executives, upskill senior leadership, and integrate AI into their core processes.

Jon Goldstein
Managing Partner SEA & India

The message is clear: high adoption is not enough. Without a coherent strategy, businesses risk falling behind in a market where digital fluency at the leadership level is becoming non-negotiable.

What Organisations Must Do Now

AI will not replace leader, but leaders who embrace AI will replace those who don’t. To stay ahead, companies must:

• Prioritise digital fluency in hiring: Seek executives who can shape AI strategy, not just use the tools.
• Invest in onboarding & upskilling: Equip leaders with AI-specific training aligned with executive responsibilities.
• Clarify career pathways: Mitigate job-security fears by aligning AI with leadership development.
• Embed AI in company culture: Support leaders to drive adoption across entire organisations.

Unlock the Full Report Now

The rise of GenAI presents a pivotal moment for executive leadership. Organisations that act decisively now – by hiring, developing, and empowering digitally fluent leaders – will turn uncertainty into long-term advantage.

Download our Talent Trends 2025: Executive & Senior Leadership Edition now to access the full insights from Page Executive and discover how your business can compete on clarity in the age of GenAI.