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.