Our recent webinar explored the key priorities shaping boardroom tech decisions in 2025. With economic shifts, geopolitical instability, and post-pandemic normalisation, businesses were cautious but strategic in their approach to technology investments in 2024. Last year, we conducted a survey of 700 c-suite executives to find out their technology priorities in the boardroom – find out more from our Tech and the Boardroom Survey – READ NOW. 

With 2025 approaching, organisations must bridge leadership-tech gaps, solidify cybersecurity, and embed AI and ESG into their strategies. The question is: Is your business prepared for what’s next? 

As businesses look toward 2025, AI adoption remains a priority, alongside digital transformation and cybersecurity. While cybersecurity may not always be at the forefront of board discussions, it remains a fundamental requirement, gaining urgency when threats arise. 

Our key takeaways from the webinar included: 

The Evolving Role of AI, Data, and Workforce Adaptation in Business 

The integration of AI and data-driven decision-making continues to be a top priority for businesses. However, the success of AI implementation is heavily dependent on employee education. Just as cybersecurity awareness training is embedded into organisations, AI literacy must become an integral part of corporate DNA to ensure employees understand both its potential and risks. 

A recurring challenge is that many businesses feel pressured to adopt AI without a clear understanding of its application. Often, innovation is expected from individual departments, but employees may lack the knowledge to leverage AI effectively. While AI is often associated with groundbreaking innovations like facial recognition, companies should also focus on simpler, impactful AI-driven optimisations. Collaboration between technology teams and business stakeholders is essential to identifying and solving real problems through AI. 

AI and Human-Machine Collaboration 

A major theme discussed was the need for a shift in perception—AI should be seen as a collaborator rather than a threat. Companies must build a future-ready workforce by upskilling employees to work alongside automation. As AI takes over repetitive, manual tasks, employees can focus on creative, high-value work. This transition requires businesses to clearly communicate their vision and invest in continuous learning programs. 

The discussion highlighted the transformation of Singapore’s Port Authority into a global digital orchestrator using predictive AI for logistics. Similar opportunities exist in the UK to integrate AI-driven efficiencies while enabling human-machine collaboration. 

Business Change and Organisational Learning 

A key question raised was whether business change management should continue to reside under HR or be more closely aligned with technology functions. Traditionally, HR handles training, but they may lack the technical expertise to drive AI-related change. Technology teams, on the other hand, are well-versed in implementing transformation but are not structured to manage workforce development. A shift in ownership or collaboration between HR and IT could be necessary to successfully integrate AI, cybersecurity, and data-driven decision-making. 

ESG and DEI: Shifting Priorities 

While Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) were prominent concerns in 2023–2024, the focus appears to be diminishing as businesses prioritise financial sustainability. Large tech firms, including META, have scaled back DEI initiatives, signalling a broader shift. Additionally, AI’s high energy consumption presents challenges to ESG goals. Until cost and efficiency improvements emerge, a tension will exist between AI expansion and sustainability efforts. 

Hybrid Work and Workforce Dynamics 

Workplace flexibility remains a key discussion point. A poll conducted during the webinar revealed that 30% of attendees are required in the office more than a year ago, while only 11% have moved towards greater remote flexibility. Notably, the US has been pushing for a return to offices, whereas the Netherlands strongly supports remote work. Organisations must balance leadership preferences with employee expectations to retain talent, ensuring that time spent in-office is valuable. 

Ensuring Responsible AI Use 

As AI adoption accelerates, concerns around ethical usage and data security grow. Companies must be mindful of AI models processing sensitive business and stakeholder data. Investing in “behind-the-firewall” AI solutions may be necessary to protect proprietary information. Additionally, social media platforms like TikTok demonstrate how AI can shape public perception, raising concerns about its potential for misinformation and manipulation. Organisations must establish robust governance frameworks to mitigate these risks. 

IT and Business Strategy Alignment 

Many organisations are conducting IT health checks and capability mapping exercises to assess whether their technology, people, and partners align with business goals. With AI and digital transformation accelerating, organisations must ensure they have the right skills and systems in place. Workforce capability gaps, particularly at junior to mid-level positions, highlight the need for targeted upskilling. 

Technology leaders must advocate for investment in talent development, ensuring that digital transformation strategies are supported by a skilled workforce. Without this alignment, businesses risk falling behind in an era where technological capability is a key competitive advantage. 

Conclusion 

The webinar emphasised that AI’s role in business is not just about adopting new tools but about creating a culture of learning, collaboration, and strategic alignment. Companies that proactively invest in AI education, responsible governance, and workforce capability development will be best positioned for success in an increasingly AI-driven world.