Managers possess skills to navigate AI-driven workplace disruption: IIM-A

Business leaders and managers possess the foundational capabilities necessary to manage the uncertainties introduced by artificial intelligence and automation in the workplace, according to senior academic leadership at IIM Ahmedabad. The institute's director emphasised that managerial training equips professionals with adaptive skills essential for navigating technological disruption. The perspective offers a counterpoint to concerns about large-scale job losses and workforce instability as AI applications proliferate across industries in India and globally. Management education programmes traditionally emphasise problem-solving, strategic thinking, and organisational change management—competencies that remain relevant amid technological transitions. Experts have increasingly stressed the importance of upskilling initiatives and continuous learning frameworks to help existing workforces transition into roles reshaped by AI implementation. Educational institutions and corporate training departments are responding by integrating AI literacy and digital fluency into their curricula and development programmes. The comments underscore ongoing debate within India's business community about whether current talent pipelines and management practices sufficiently prepare organisations to harness AI's benefits while mitigating workforce disruption risks.