Leading in the Augmented Organisation of the Future

In conversations with leaders, I’m noticing something important. While AI and automation are reshaping industries, most organisations haven’t fully considered how this impacts leadership. AI is often left to Tech or Data teams, while leaders across finance, HR, and operations are only just beginning to ask what these shifts mean for them.

This isn’t the first time technology has changed how we lead. Remember when email first appeared? We thought it was just a way to speed up communication, but it fundamentally altered how we worked and connected. AI is now doing the same—on a much larger scale.

In an augmented organisation, where human teams work alongside AI and advanced technologies, leadership is evolving. It’s not about learning new tools—it’s about reshaping how we think, decide, and lead. Here’s what that looks like.

AI as a Leadership Partner
AI is no longer just a tool to use when it’s convenient; it’s a powerful partner capable of managing tasks like analysing data or generating predictive insights. This doesn’t replace the need for leaders—it reframes it. AI can handle speed and scale, but leaders bring judgement, creativity, and empathy. Partnering with AI means working together to make decisions and solve problems that neither could do alone.

Personalised Leadership at Scale
Technology has raised expectations for personalisation—not just for customers but for team members too. People now bring those expectations into the workplace, looking for leadership that aligns with their individual goals, strengths, and motivations. AI offers us the ability to tailor how we lead, ensuring each person feels valued and supported in ways that matter to them. When done well, it has a profound impact on engagement and outcomes.

From Control to Guidance
With AI handling more routine functions, the role of leaders is shifting. Micromanagement is being replaced with guidance and inspiration (although, perhaps, it’s time for some organisations to let go of micromanagement altogether). Leaders have an opportunity to create cultures where curiosity and learning flourish, allowing teams to feel confident working alongside AI rather than seeing it as a threat.

Navigating the Ethical Questions
AI also brings new ethical complexities. How do we ensure fairness and transparency when working with systems that process vast amounts of data? Leaders are responsible for maintaining trust—both within teams and with external stakeholders—by asking tough questions about privacy, bias, and responsible use.

Preparing for the Skills of Tomorrow
As AI takes on repetitive tasks, it places a spotlight on uniquely human skills—emotional intelligence, creative problem-solving, and collaboration. Leaders need to focus on building these strengths in their teams, ensuring their organisations are ready for what’s next.

Leading Through Constant Change
The pace of AI development means there’s no “normal” anymore. Instead, leadership requires balancing stability with adaptability, responding to rapid change while maintaining a sense of direction. Resilience—both individual and collective—becomes an essential skill for navigating this “never normal” world.

Putting It into Practice

Leading in an augmented organisation isn’t something to approach passively. Small actions can help you start navigating this new reality:

• Identify one process AI could improve in your team. Experiment with it and gather feedback on how it changes the way you work.
• Set aside time each week to talk with your team about AI. What opportunities or concerns do they see?
• Use AI for a project and reflect on the experience. What worked? What didn’t? Share these learnings with your team.

As I explore this myself—like creating my own digital twin—I’m finding that it raises as many questions as it answers. Will AI amplify my strengths or reinforce habits I’d rather change? Can it reflect me at my best? These aren’t abstract thoughts; they’re the practical realities leaders are grappling with as we turn the AI corner.

How are you evolving your leadership to meet this new world of work? What steps are you taking to guide your team through these changes?