Exploring the artificial intelligence integration in top management team decision-making: an empirical analysis

Purpose: Drawing on upper echelons theory (UET), this study empirically explores how artificial intelligence (AI) has influenced the top management team’s (TMT) decision-making process in business management. Design/methodology/approach: This article is based on 21 semi-structured interviews with top managers leading AI integration in their organizations. It adopts an inductive approach and applies the Gioia methodology. Findings: The research identifies four primary areas of impact of AI for TMTs in managing digital business processes: (1) hybrid decision-making process, (2) AI’s ethical implications, (3) TMT governance through AI, and (4) AI-driven competitive advantage. Also, a framework has been developed that provides an initial understanding of how integrating AI in organizations affects the TMT’s decision-making process. Practical implications: The study provides practical insights for the TMT leveraging AI technologies to enhance decision-making in managing business processes. Additionally, it offers helpful guidance for organizations to stay at the forefront of innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving world. Originality/value: Our findings highlight the critical role of TMT’s decision-making in managing business processes transformed by AI. Moreover, the study extends the UET, highlighting how the integration of AI influences the TMT’s decision-making process and how ethical implications impact these decisions and business management.