AI revolution leaves global CEOs both eager and anxious, Cisco study reveals
AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS — A comprehensive new Cisco study reveals both the enthusiasm and apprehension of today’s business leaders regarding AI adoption.
The CEO study, conducted by Opinion Matters from December 24, 2024 to January 2, 2025, surveyed 2,503 CEOs from companies with over 250 employees worldwide.
The AI paradox
Despite overwhelming interest in AI integration, with 97% of CEOs planning to incorporate the technology, only 1.7% feel fully prepared for this transformation. This gap between ambition and readiness could severely impact strategic decisions.
Real-world impact
The consequences of delayed AI adoption are already visible, with over half of CEOs reporting competitive losses due to insufficient technology investment. More than 70% express concerns about falling behind competitors due to infrastructure and knowledge gaps.
Jeetu Patel, Cisco’s Chief Product Officer, emphasizes the urgency of the situation: “Leaders who act decisively today to build resilient, future-proofed networks will be the AI-forward leaders driving real value for their business. Eventually there will be only two kinds of companies: those that are AI companies, and those that are irrelevant.”
Strategic responses to AI challenges
CEOs are focusing on three key areas to address these challenges:
- Investing in employee knowledge and skills development
- Upgrading technological infrastructure
- Strengthening cybersecurity measures
The research indicates that 96% of CEOs are partnering with trusted experts to prepare their networks for AI implementation. This investment is not just in technology but also in people and processes. Nearly 80% of CEOs recognize the crucial role of their CTOs and CIOs in guiding these transformative decisions.
Oliver Tuszik, President of Cisco EMEA, notes: “Whole businesses will be revolutionized if they can unlock AI’s potential to innovate faster, simpify their operations, and withstand digital disruptions. But no one can do it alone”.
