Crisis resistance through AI and ESG

AI flying high, home office in decline

Over the next three years 92% of executives plan to expand their workforce, and almost three-quarters say AI won’t reduce the number of jobs. 64% of CEOs say AI is their top investment priority in 2024, although they expect a return on the investment only in 3-5 years. 83% of CEOs believe they will fully return to office-based working in three years, compared to 64% in 2023. This proportion is particularly high among executives aged over 60. 87% plan to reward employees who actively return to the office, e.g. with a pay rise or a promotion.

Talent management, re-training and ESG

Only 38% of CEOs believe their employees have the necessary skills to make the most of AI. Talent management and training is therefore a key focus, with 80% of CEOs saying that skills development in local communities and support for lifelong learning are essential to securing a future workforce. The importance of ESG initiatives has increased sharply among managers: three-quarters of them would be willing to part with a profitable division if it would damage their company’s reputation. ESG issues, particularly sustainability, have become part of daily thinking, with 24% of CEOs saying that ignoring them could put them at a competitive disadvantage. //