When we talk about AI and technology in the workplace, the conversation often starts with one question:

Which tasks can technology automate?

But there is a more important question:

How will technology change the way we organise work and lead our organisations?

A recent article by INSEAD explores exactly this issue. Technology does not simply change what people do. It can also change how organisations divide work, coordinate teams, make decisions and manage performance.

As AI takes on more tasks, the role of managers may change as well.

Less monitoring.
Less coordination.
More direction.
More development.
More human judgement.

But this does not necessarily mean that organisations will need fewer managers.

One possible future is that managers increasingly become teachers — helping employees develop new skills rather than primarily monitoring and supervising their work.

Another possibility is the emergence of entirely new managerial responsibilities. Managers may increasingly coordinate the work between people and AI agents, continuously redefining how tasks, responsibilities and decision-making are divided.

Of course, this is still speculative. But it raises an important question:

Could AI create demand for a new generation of managers with a different set of skills?

This creates an important challenge for organisations.

Technology is becoming increasingly accessible. AI tools will eventually be available to everyone. The real difference will therefore not only be the technology an organisation uses, but the people who know how to use it well.

The managers who know when to trust data and AI — and when human judgement is essential.

The leaders who can help people develop, adapt, and work effectively alongside AI.

The professionals who combine technical expertise with critical thinking, collaboration and adaptability.

And the organisations that invest not only in technology, but also in the people who determine what that technology can achieve.

AI is changing work. But precisely because of that, choosing the right managers and professionals may become more important than ever.

Looking beyond today’s job description

At Berger Executive Solutions, we believe recruitment is about more than matching a CV to a job description.

The challenge is not simply to find someone who fits the role today. The real question is whether that person has the knowledge, judgement and adaptability to contribute to the organisation of tomorrow.

As technology continues to evolve, organisations will need people who can evolve with it.

Technology will continue to change. Human judgement will continue to matter.

Source: INSEAD Knowledge, “How Technology Is Changing the Work of Management”