AI adoption exposes generational divide in management, research finds

KEDGE Business School has published new research suggesting that artificial intelligence is already reshaping management practice, but that a strong generational divide is emerging in how leaders use the technology. The findings come from an OpinionWay survey carried out in October 2025 among managers, and point to younger leaders adopting AI at a significantly faster pace than their older counterparts. While AI tools such as ChatGPT are now widely used across the profession, the study suggests that managers under 40 are far more likely to integrate AI into day-to-day leadership decisions, while older managers remain more cautious and selective.

According to the survey, 89 percent of managers under 40 said they had adapted their management practices in response to the adoption of artificial intelligence, compared with 74 percent of managers over 50. The gap is even wider when it comes to performance evaluation, with 90 percent of younger managers saying they have revised how they assess staff performance, compared with 60 percent of older managers.

The research also indicates that AI adoption has accelerated sharply over the last two years. In 2023, only around one in five managers reported using AI tools, but by 2025 more than 80 percent said they use them at least occasionally.

Most respondents described AI primarily as a productivity tool, commonly used for research, summarising documents and drafting written communications. However, the survey suggests AI is increasingly being applied to people management tasks, including preparing performance reviews, seeking advice on managerial decisions and handling difficult situations.

The report identifies age as the main factor shaping these practices, with younger managers twice as likely as older managers to rely on AI for guidance in performance management and conflict resolution. The survey also found that 55 percent of younger managers reported experiencing generational tensions within their teams linked to AI use.

While nearly three quarters of managers said AI helps them save time, many also expressed concern that it may complicate their role and weaken human relationships in the workplace. The study suggests these tensions are particularly evident in performance management, with younger managers placing greater emphasis on creativity and initiative, while older managers continue to prioritise oversight, reliability and consistency. Expectations for the future also differ sharply. Almost half of managers under 40 said they believe management will change dramatically within five years, compared with 28 percent of those over 50.

The researchers from KEDGE Business School said the findings underline the need for organisations to align approaches across generations and ensure AI is adopted responsibly. The school has made AI a central part of its KEDGE 2030 strategy, expanding its teaching across degree programmes and executive education. “AI is already changing the foundations of management. The real issue is not learning how to use a tool, but redefining what it means to be a manager,” said Alexandre de Navailles, general manager of KEDGE Business School.