Will the chief AI officer role survive?

The chief AI officer role has gained significant traction in recent years, with over three-quarters of organizations having appointed a dedicated leader for artificial intelligence. As AI becomes an integral part of every role and workflow within companies, the logic of a single owner for AI strategy is becoming increasingly challenging to maintain.

The paradox lies in the fact that the more effectively a chief AI officer performs their duties, the less their organization may need the role in the future, as AI becomes an underlying infrastructure for the entire enterprise. Drawing parallels with the trajectory of the chief digital officer (CDO), it is likely that the chief AI officer's role will also evolve.

Initially, the chief AI officer will serve as an evangelist, building awareness and encouraging experimentation in AI adoption. In the second phase, they will transition into an operator, driving value and demonstrating ROI for boards and investors. Finally, the chief AI officer will shift towards being an architect, building systems that enable other executives to take ownership of AI within their respective functions.

This three-stage evolution allows the chief AI officer to reduce the need for a separate AI department while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the enterprise, positioning them for broader transformation leadership roles in the future.