German Execs Lack GenAI Expertise, Threatening Leadership Roles
A significant gap in generative AI (GenAI) expertise among top German company executives has been highlighted. This lack of knowledge could potentially push decision-makers without a solid understanding of AI out of leadership roles in the long run.
Currently, only 20% of German companies use GenAI across the board, often hindered by insufficient expertise at the top management level. However, 91% of companies anticipate that GenAI will transform personnel management, particularly knowledge management.
Leaders with GenAI know-how can attract suitable talent and foster an innovation-friendly corporate culture. This expertise also enables them to make more precise and bold strategic decisions, considering the potentials and risks of GenAI technologies. As of October 2025, there is no detailed information on which German companies have established dedicated AI officers to address the growing importance of GenAI.
Two-thirds of executives agree that decision-makers without a solid understanding of AI will eventually be pushed out of leadership positions. Moreover, 52% of executives expect that business models based entirely on generative AI will dominate in the future.
The lack of GenAI expertise among top German company executives could lead to significant changes in leadership roles. Companies that currently use GenAI estimate that new, entirely generative AI-based business models will emerge. To stay competitive, German corporate leadership should prioritize developing or acquiring comprehensive GenAI expertise.
