The AI Revolution: Why Business Leaders Must Embrace AI Literacy
Once merely a buzzword confined to the realms of research labs and IT departments, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal force in modern business. It is no longer an auxiliary function but a fundamental driver of innovation and growth. Today, AI is integral to process optimization, value creation, and strategic decision-making.
According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023, over 75% of companies worldwide anticipate adopting AI technology in the next three years. This statistic signals a significant shift in business dynamics, necessitating a transformation in leadership to remain competitive.
The New Role of Executives in AI
Delegating AI responsibilities solely to tech teams is no longer sufficient. Today’s business executives are expected to navigate the complexities of AI and apply its potential strategically. This goes beyond mere familiarity with tools like ChatGPT, Llama, or DeepSeek; leaders must evaluate when and where to deploy these technologies effectively while managing associated risks. McKinsey’s 2023 research emphasizes that Generative AI (GenAI) could contribute up to $4.4 trillion annually to global productivity, marking an incredible opportunity for informed leadership.
Leaders fluent in the language of AI will be in prime positions to unlock this value and propel their careers forward. As highlighted by Gartner’s Future of Work Trends 2024, organizations that equip their leaders to collaborate with AI will outperform competitors in agility, innovation, and employee engagement.
Defining Core Leadership Competencies in an AI-driven World
The real challenge lies in how leaders shape their AI vision to leverage, monitor, and co-create with AI systems. A leadership approach that emphasizes AI fluency—recognizing what AI can accomplish, what it should be doing, and how it aligns with business goals—will be critical for adapting to an evolving business landscape.
Preparing the Next Generation of AI-literate Leaders
In recognition of this monumental shift, the Indian School of Business (ISB), ranked #1 in India and #5 in Asia according to the Financial Times Global MBA Ranking 2025, has launched the Leadership with AI programme. Ideal for senior professionals, the programme spans 20 weeks in an executive-friendly online format, beginning on June 30, 2025.
The curriculum integrates strategic frameworks and hands-on learning through over 140 pre-recorded video lessons from ISB’s esteemed faculty, complemented by more than 20 case studies, 40 assignments, and live masterclasses led by industry experts. This programme emphasizes AI, GenAI, and Agentic AI, focusing on practical application through a capstone project where participants create and pitch an AI leadership strategy.
Course Structure and Benefits
Participants will have access to a wealth of asynchronous learning materials—articles, podcasts, and masterclasses—along with 18 live interactive sessions to address queries with programme leaders. Graduates will receive a certificate from ISB Online and join a vast alumni network, ensuring continuous learning opportunities. The total cost of the programme is ₹1,99,900, with flexible payment options available.
What to Expect
The ISB Online Leadership with AI programme is tailored to provide practical and strategic insights for professionals navigating leadership roles in a tech-driven environment. By the end of the 20-week journey, participants will have a robust understanding of AI, GenAI, and the emerging field of Agentic AI, enabling them to apply these technologies across various business domains.
Graduates will be empowered to identify AI opportunities in marketing, finance, operations, and strategic planning while learning to navigate ethical, regulatory, and governance challenges that come with AI deployment responsibly.
Through real-world case studies and interactive discussions, participants will develop decision-making skills grounded in practical scenarios. The capstone project ensures that they graduate not just with theoretical knowledge, but also with readiness for real-world implementation.
Target Audience
This programme caters specifically to senior and functional leaders across technology, marketing, finance, operations, consulting, and general management. It is designed for professionals with at least 10 years of experience aiming to drive innovation and gain a competitive edge in an increasingly AI-centric market.
Why AI Literacy is Crucial in the Boardroom
AI is now a transformative element across diverse sectors, including banking, healthcare, manufacturing, and consumer tech. In retail, it personalizes customer experiences in real time, while in finance, AI models enhance compliance processes. In healthcare, diagnostic models assist clinicians in prioritizing patient treatments, representing significant shifts facilitated by leadership’s strategic direction.
ISB Online’s Leadership with AI programme aims to equip leaders with the necessary mindset and toolkit to foster intelligent, responsible AI-driven innovation.
For more details on learner testimonials, business case studies, or to explore the programme modules further, visit the programme website.
References
World Economic Forum. The Future of Jobs Report 2023. Link
McKinsey & Company. The Economic Potential of Generative AI, 2023. Link
Gartner. Future Work Trends: 2024. Link
Disclaimer: This content was authored by the ET Spotlight team. The editorial staff of ET had no involvement in its creation.
Questions and Answers
- What is the main objective of the ISB Leadership with AI programme?
The ISB Leadership with AI programme aims to equip senior professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively integrate AI into their organizational strategies and drive responsible innovation. - What is the duration of the programme?
The programme is structured over 20 weeks and is designed in an executive-friendly online format. - What kind of materials and support will participants receive?
Participants will have access to over 140 pre-recorded lessons, case studies, assignments, live masterclasses, and interactive doubt-clearing sessions. - Who is the ideal candidate for this programme?
The programme is geared toward senior professionals with at least 10 years of experience in fields such as technology, marketing, finance, and operations who are looking to lead AI-driven transformation. - What is the cost of the programme and are there payment options available?
The programme costs ₹1,99,900, with financing and flexible payment options available.
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