Tech Executives Question AI Strategy Effectiveness Amid Rapid Adoption

Akkodis’ 2025 survey of 2,000 global executives, including 500 CTOs, shows C-suite confidence in AI strategy fell from 69% in 2024 to 58% in 2025. CEOs and CTOs cite slow implementation, poor AI fluency, and challenges translating investments into measurable outcomes.

Declining Confidence Among CTOs and CEOs

CTOs experienced the steepest confidence drop, down 20%, while CEO confidence fell 33%. Leaders report gaps in AI knowledge and human-centric skills such as creativity (44%), leadership (39%), and critical thinking (36%).

Highlighting text: “CTOs must balance technical expertise with human skills to close the AI adoption gap,” experts note.

Human Skills Are Critical for AI Success

Executives increasingly recognize that AI adoption requires more than technology. Strategic thinking, team management, and empathy are crucial to convert AI investments into actionable business results.

Human leadership and soft skills must complement AI capabilities to achieve meaningful outcomes.

-Cristopher Kuehl, VP of AI and Data Science at Akkodis.

CTOs Must Lead Technical and Human-Centered Transformation

The report emphasizes that successful AI implementation depends on leadership that blends technical knowledge with human-focused strategies. Prioritizing internal development and fostering key soft skills ensures sustainable AI adoption and tangible results.

“Without measured application, AI risks overpromising and underdelivering,” notes Akkodis President Jo Debecker.