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The AI-Savvy Leader: Nine Ways to Take Back Control and Make AI Work
Leaders, don't let AI get the best of you.
The AI transformation is underway, but where are the leaders who will ensure their companies implement AI successfully and responsibly? Up until now, leaders have largely ceded their role in the AI transformation, pushing strategy formulation out to tech teams and leaving investment decisions to groups that don't have a full view of the organization or its goals. Just when responsible leadership is more crucial than ever, leaders are abdicating their role in understanding and executing in the new world of human-machine collaboration. A generation of AI transformation failures awaits if leaders don't connect their use of AI to their strategies.
This book helps leaders take control of the wildly rapid deployment of AI across organizations. Clearly and concisely, it focuses on the nine actions leaders need to take in order to successfully preside over the transition to a more AI-centric future that will lead to growth for all—companies and workers—and avoid the kinds of mistakes that author David De Cremer has seen many early adopters make. What may surprise you is that the nine actions De Cremer focuses on are based on skills that are second nature to successful creating a vision, communicating well, and executing a strategy. But here he shows you how to apply these skills in the context of AI. This is not a book about mastering machine learning or any of the latest developments in AI technology itself. Rather, it's a clarion call for leaders to take their rightful place at the front of the AI revolution and lead their organizations successfully into the new world.
The AI transformation is underway, but where are the leaders who will ensure their companies implement AI successfully and responsibly? Up until now, leaders have largely ceded their role in the AI transformation, pushing strategy formulation out to tech teams and leaving investment decisions to groups that don't have a full view of the organization or its goals. Just when responsible leadership is more crucial than ever, leaders are abdicating their role in understanding and executing in the new world of human-machine collaboration. A generation of AI transformation failures awaits if leaders don't connect their use of AI to their strategies.
This book helps leaders take control of the wildly rapid deployment of AI across organizations. Clearly and concisely, it focuses on the nine actions leaders need to take in order to successfully preside over the transition to a more AI-centric future that will lead to growth for all—companies and workers—and avoid the kinds of mistakes that author David De Cremer has seen many early adopters make. What may surprise you is that the nine actions De Cremer focuses on are based on skills that are second nature to successful creating a vision, communicating well, and executing a strategy. But here he shows you how to apply these skills in the context of AI. This is not a book about mastering machine learning or any of the latest developments in AI technology itself. Rather, it's a clarion call for leaders to take their rightful place at the front of the AI revolution and lead their organizations successfully into the new world.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2024
47 people are currently reading
1785 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 2, 2025
DNF at 40% audiobook. I picked this up after reading/listening to Supremacy - AI, ChatGPT and the Race that Will Change the World by Parmy Olson, which did a comprehensive job. However, this book is really dry. I couldn't help but roll my eyes throughout this. Admittedly, I'm really not the targeted audience of this book as it's aimed at leaders and management. This was written on the tin, so I can't blame them. I was truly curious, as a non-management person, about how management today may be approaching AI integration.
I held out until 40% because I had hoped it would provide some insights deeper into the book. However, some of it's recommendations just seem too idealistic and lacked nuance.
For instance, the author recommended using AI to filter resumes, as an example of the type of rote work that AI could do to free up HR employees' time for higher level, more creative, human-unique work. While I understand that the author was giving an example of the types of work that AI could do to reduce the human workload (which I agree with! AI can be really helpful!), I was disappointed that the author did not take the opportunity to even mention the limitations and issues of using AI for the hiring process, namely, that the AI training data biases. (See Amazon AI hiring biases). Perhaps the black box and training data issue is addressed further into the book? I don't have high hopes.
Another point that irked me was how the author recommended that management/leaders should reward employees for being human, but failed to elaborate on the how. Humans need to use the bathroom, eat, sleep, and foster social connections. I feel that in the current capitalist society, this humaness is on the contrary, punished.
The above is just my opinion at this current time and space. We all have different experiences.
I held out until 40% because I had hoped it would provide some insights deeper into the book. However, some of it's recommendations just seem too idealistic and lacked nuance.
For instance, the author recommended using AI to filter resumes, as an example of the type of rote work that AI could do to free up HR employees' time for higher level, more creative, human-unique work. While I understand that the author was giving an example of the types of work that AI could do to reduce the human workload (which I agree with! AI can be really helpful!), I was disappointed that the author did not take the opportunity to even mention the limitations and issues of using AI for the hiring process, namely, that the AI training data biases. (See Amazon AI hiring biases). Perhaps the black box and training data issue is addressed further into the book? I don't have high hopes.
Another point that irked me was how the author recommended that management/leaders should reward employees for being human, but failed to elaborate on the how. Humans need to use the bathroom, eat, sleep, and foster social connections. I feel that in the current capitalist society, this humaness is on the contrary, punished.
The above is just my opinion at this current time and space. We all have different experiences.
February 20, 2025
Useful and smart, based on experience and packed with ideas. I am just afraid it might be already outdated.
June 17, 2024
The global business leadership landscape is undergoing a seismic shift. Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a science fiction storyline; it's rapidly weaving itself into the fabric of every industry.
This presents a unique challenge for CEOs and executive teams – mastering AI is not just the next big opportunity, it's the next great leadership challenge.
Here's why "The AI-Savvy Leader" by David De Cremer is a must-read for any senior executive navigating this emerging business transformation frontier.
The urgency for AI literacy stems from several factors. Generative AI (GenAI) tools are rapidly advancing in capability, offering all organizations the potential to reimagine everything from product development to customer service.
Yet, without proper guidance, these powerful tools can lead to ethical quagmires and missed opportunities. De Cremer emphasizes that business purpose, not just technological prowess, must be the north star guiding AI implementation.
The book debunks the myth of AI as a job-stealing menace. Instead, De Cremer advocates for human-plus-AI collaborations, where human expertise and intuition are amplified by AI's data-crunching abilities.
This approach fosters a more inclusive work environment, leveraging the strengths of both humans and machines.
De Cremer highlights the crucial role of superior communication skills in driving AI adoption. Leaders must effectively articulate the vision, assuage anxieties, and build trust with employees at all levels.
After all, successful AI integration hinges on a willing and engaged workforce.
The most AI-savvy leaders are not just tech enthusiasts; they are strategic visionaries. De Cremer emphasizes the importance of considering all stakeholders – employees, customers, and society as a whole – when deploying AI solutions. This holistic mindset ensures responsible and sustainable AI practices.
The book champions a human-centered approach to AI adoption. De Cremer argues for employee augmentation, where AI assists humans in performing tasks, rather than simply automating them.
This frees up people's innate potential for higher-order thinking and innovation, driving the development of more strategic AI use cases.
De Cremer reminds us that AI is not just about the technology; it's about people. Leaders must hone their soft skills – empathy, persuasion, and active listening – to navigate the change management storm that inevitably accompanies AI integration.
Polymathic Leadership: How to Unlock AI's Potential
I believe Generative AI tools require a new kind of leadership charter: for the Polymathic Leader. As outlined in my framework, these savvy leaders possess a blend of skills aligned with the themes in David De Cremer's book.
I hypothesize that by fostering Polymathic Leadership development alongside strategic AI implementation, organizations can unlock the full potential of their GenAI investments.
This presents a unique challenge for CEOs and executive teams – mastering AI is not just the next big opportunity, it's the next great leadership challenge.
Here's why "The AI-Savvy Leader" by David De Cremer is a must-read for any senior executive navigating this emerging business transformation frontier.
The urgency for AI literacy stems from several factors. Generative AI (GenAI) tools are rapidly advancing in capability, offering all organizations the potential to reimagine everything from product development to customer service.
Yet, without proper guidance, these powerful tools can lead to ethical quagmires and missed opportunities. De Cremer emphasizes that business purpose, not just technological prowess, must be the north star guiding AI implementation.
The book debunks the myth of AI as a job-stealing menace. Instead, De Cremer advocates for human-plus-AI collaborations, where human expertise and intuition are amplified by AI's data-crunching abilities.
This approach fosters a more inclusive work environment, leveraging the strengths of both humans and machines.
De Cremer highlights the crucial role of superior communication skills in driving AI adoption. Leaders must effectively articulate the vision, assuage anxieties, and build trust with employees at all levels.
After all, successful AI integration hinges on a willing and engaged workforce.
The most AI-savvy leaders are not just tech enthusiasts; they are strategic visionaries. De Cremer emphasizes the importance of considering all stakeholders – employees, customers, and society as a whole – when deploying AI solutions. This holistic mindset ensures responsible and sustainable AI practices.
The book champions a human-centered approach to AI adoption. De Cremer argues for employee augmentation, where AI assists humans in performing tasks, rather than simply automating them.
This frees up people's innate potential for higher-order thinking and innovation, driving the development of more strategic AI use cases.
De Cremer reminds us that AI is not just about the technology; it's about people. Leaders must hone their soft skills – empathy, persuasion, and active listening – to navigate the change management storm that inevitably accompanies AI integration.
Polymathic Leadership: How to Unlock AI's Potential
I believe Generative AI tools require a new kind of leadership charter: for the Polymathic Leader. As outlined in my framework, these savvy leaders possess a blend of skills aligned with the themes in David De Cremer's book.
I hypothesize that by fostering Polymathic Leadership development alongside strategic AI implementation, organizations can unlock the full potential of their GenAI investments.
June 10, 2025
What separates an effective leader in the age of artificial intelligence from one who will be left behind? How do we balance technological prowess with essential human capabilities? In “The AI Savvy Leader,” David De Cremer offers a timely exploration of leadership in an era where algorithms increasingly perform tasks once considered uniquely human. His work isn’t just another technical manual about AI implementation—it’s a nuanced examination of how leadership itself must evolve when machines begin to think.
De Cremer builds his argument on a foundation of “complementary intelligence,” the idea that tomorrow’s leaders will succeed not by competing with AI but by developing distinctly human capabilities that work in concert with technology. The first half of the book carefully dismantles the false binary of humans versus machines, instead proposing a framework where emotional intelligence, ethical reasoning, and contextual understanding become even more crucial as computational tasks are automated. His research-backed approach avoids both techno-utopianism and fearful resistance, instead charting a middle path focused on practical adaptation.
As the book progresses, De Cremer shifts from theory to application, offering leaders concrete strategies for developing what he calls “AI literacy”—not just understanding how algorithms work but recognizing their limitations and ethical implications. Particularly compelling is his discussion of decision-making processes that incorporate both data-driven insights and human judgment. The case studies he presents demonstrate that the most effective leaders aren’t those who simply deploy AI tools but those who thoughtfully integrate machine capabilities with human oversight and values-based direction.
The book’s most profound contribution may be its examination of the moral dimensions of AI leadership. De Cremer argues persuasively that as AI systems become more autonomous, leaders must serve as ethical guardians who ensure technology serves human flourishing rather than narrow metrics of efficiency or profit. His framework for “responsible AI leadership” challenges readers to consider how their organizational culture and decision-making processes might need restructuring to maintain human dignity in increasingly automated environments.
Are we preparing our organizations not just to use AI but to use it wisely? De Cremer’s work suggests that the answer will depend less on technological sophistication and more on whether leaders can cultivate wisdom, ethical clarity, and emotional intelligence alongside their digital literacy. For anyone responsible for guiding teams through the AI revolution, this book offers both practical guidance and the deeper philosophical perspective needed to navigate uncharted waters.
De Cremer builds his argument on a foundation of “complementary intelligence,” the idea that tomorrow’s leaders will succeed not by competing with AI but by developing distinctly human capabilities that work in concert with technology. The first half of the book carefully dismantles the false binary of humans versus machines, instead proposing a framework where emotional intelligence, ethical reasoning, and contextual understanding become even more crucial as computational tasks are automated. His research-backed approach avoids both techno-utopianism and fearful resistance, instead charting a middle path focused on practical adaptation.
As the book progresses, De Cremer shifts from theory to application, offering leaders concrete strategies for developing what he calls “AI literacy”—not just understanding how algorithms work but recognizing their limitations and ethical implications. Particularly compelling is his discussion of decision-making processes that incorporate both data-driven insights and human judgment. The case studies he presents demonstrate that the most effective leaders aren’t those who simply deploy AI tools but those who thoughtfully integrate machine capabilities with human oversight and values-based direction.
The book’s most profound contribution may be its examination of the moral dimensions of AI leadership. De Cremer argues persuasively that as AI systems become more autonomous, leaders must serve as ethical guardians who ensure technology serves human flourishing rather than narrow metrics of efficiency or profit. His framework for “responsible AI leadership” challenges readers to consider how their organizational culture and decision-making processes might need restructuring to maintain human dignity in increasingly automated environments.
Are we preparing our organizations not just to use AI but to use it wisely? De Cremer’s work suggests that the answer will depend less on technological sophistication and more on whether leaders can cultivate wisdom, ethical clarity, and emotional intelligence alongside their digital literacy. For anyone responsible for guiding teams through the AI revolution, this book offers both practical guidance and the deeper philosophical perspective needed to navigate uncharted waters.
October 18, 2024
28%
It's odd that Dr. De Cremer felt comfortable proclaiming himself as a leading scientist and expert on specifically business leadership and AI when he doesn't have a solid grasp of how data informs business decisions and how AI actually fully functions. Or even a good grasp of how AI functions really is the problem here. As the founder of Pi, this is ridiculous. If you look at his website, because I was like, what qualifications does he have to actually make these statements? It is very interesting because it's robust with him saying how qualified he is to make these statements. It's like if he made the website specifically to say, I am extremely qualified. It's like, okay. You made the website to tout your qualifications. Okay. It seems like you anticipated me coming along and saying, well, this isn't actually right. And saying, oh, no, I have sources. Like, well done, you have sources. Me too. I'm not saying that it's all wrong. The slide gave it 28%, but the data doesn't support it. Historical business practices and leaders in business don't support what he's talking about. It's very nuanced, these soft skills that he's saying to focus on so heavily. And I do think that they will become more relevant and are becoming more relevant today even. But they certainly should not be the driving force between making large-scale decisions for the environment between the business and the consumer, or even leaders in business and the employees.
It's odd that Dr. De Cremer felt comfortable proclaiming himself as a leading scientist and expert on specifically business leadership and AI when he doesn't have a solid grasp of how data informs business decisions and how AI actually fully functions. Or even a good grasp of how AI functions really is the problem here. As the founder of Pi, this is ridiculous. If you look at his website, because I was like, what qualifications does he have to actually make these statements? It is very interesting because it's robust with him saying how qualified he is to make these statements. It's like if he made the website specifically to say, I am extremely qualified. It's like, okay. You made the website to tout your qualifications. Okay. It seems like you anticipated me coming along and saying, well, this isn't actually right. And saying, oh, no, I have sources. Like, well done, you have sources. Me too. I'm not saying that it's all wrong. The slide gave it 28%, but the data doesn't support it. Historical business practices and leaders in business don't support what he's talking about. It's very nuanced, these soft skills that he's saying to focus on so heavily. And I do think that they will become more relevant and are becoming more relevant today even. But they certainly should not be the driving force between making large-scale decisions for the environment between the business and the consumer, or even leaders in business and the employees.
August 11, 2024
Professor David De Cremer offers a refreshing human-centric perspective on artificial intelligence. As the Dean of the School of Business at Northeastern University, De Cremer brings a wealth of real-world knowledge and a human focus often missing from AI books. While many texts zero in on the technology itself, De Cremer shifts the spotlight to the leaders who shape the business strategies that AI supports.
The book is packed with real-world examples of successful and failed AI implementations, along with valuable insights. Like many business books, this one is well-organized, and you can easily discern the general gist of the content just by looking at the table of contents and chapter titles. De Cremer outlines nine ways leaders can take control of AI integration into business, emphasizing strategic alignment and ethical considerations. Key takeaways include leveraging AI for more informed decision-making, fostering a culture of ongoing learning, and keeping the human element central to tech adoption.
For an executive like me, this book reaffirms that the rise of AI doesn’t negate the need for effective leadership; quite the contrary, it demands it. It’s not just about getting up to speed with AI tools; it’s about using them to drive business growth while staying true to core values. De Cremer’s advice on creating a learning culture and ensuring transparency with AI implementation presents a challenge to all contemporary business leaders. These strategies can make a real difference in how we adapt and thrive with new technologies.
In the end, The AI-Savvy Leader reinforces that effective leadership, whether with AI or not, boils down to the same fundamental principles: vision, integrity, and adaptability. If you’re looking to navigate the AI landscape while keeping your leadership grounded, this book comes highly recommended. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
The book is packed with real-world examples of successful and failed AI implementations, along with valuable insights. Like many business books, this one is well-organized, and you can easily discern the general gist of the content just by looking at the table of contents and chapter titles. De Cremer outlines nine ways leaders can take control of AI integration into business, emphasizing strategic alignment and ethical considerations. Key takeaways include leveraging AI for more informed decision-making, fostering a culture of ongoing learning, and keeping the human element central to tech adoption.
For an executive like me, this book reaffirms that the rise of AI doesn’t negate the need for effective leadership; quite the contrary, it demands it. It’s not just about getting up to speed with AI tools; it’s about using them to drive business growth while staying true to core values. De Cremer’s advice on creating a learning culture and ensuring transparency with AI implementation presents a challenge to all contemporary business leaders. These strategies can make a real difference in how we adapt and thrive with new technologies.
In the end, The AI-Savvy Leader reinforces that effective leadership, whether with AI or not, boils down to the same fundamental principles: vision, integrity, and adaptability. If you’re looking to navigate the AI landscape while keeping your leadership grounded, this book comes highly recommended. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
August 28, 2024
"The AI-Savvy Leader: Nine Ways to Take Back Control and Make AI Work" is easily one of the best books I've read on the importance of the leader's role in implementing artificial intelligence projects - and, in fact, it applies to digital transformation projects in general.
Author David De Cremer presents nine leadership principles that, surprisingly, focus more on interpersonal relationships than on technical knowledge itself (although the latter is minimally necessary). The book demystifies the idea that AI implementation is purely a technological issue, showing that success depends on the leader's ability to create a shared vision, communicate effectively, build trust, and empower their teams.
The book is a practical and inspiring guide for leaders who want to successfully navigate the AI era. De Cremer reminds us that, no matter how advanced the technology, the human factor remains essential to the success of any transformation initiative. I highly recommend reading it to all leaders looking to prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
Author David De Cremer presents nine leadership principles that, surprisingly, focus more on interpersonal relationships than on technical knowledge itself (although the latter is minimally necessary). The book demystifies the idea that AI implementation is purely a technological issue, showing that success depends on the leader's ability to create a shared vision, communicate effectively, build trust, and empower their teams.
The book is a practical and inspiring guide for leaders who want to successfully navigate the AI era. De Cremer reminds us that, no matter how advanced the technology, the human factor remains essential to the success of any transformation initiative. I highly recommend reading it to all leaders looking to prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
August 16, 2024
While this book is ostensibly about AI, I think this book could be reframed to address any shiny new technology that business leaders seek out, following the latest trends. In reality, this book is more about the basics of business, leadership, and change management. In summary, don't forget all your business and leadership training because of the promise of AI, and don't do dumb things in pursuit of this trendy new technology. It's all about change management and employee engagement. The one point that I found helpful and hadn't expected to find in this book was the author's admonition that AI should be adopted to augment employee's work, not to replace the employee.
August 13, 2024
Audience is 100% executives so keep that in mind when reading. And the first thing the author does is cater to an executive ego by framing the conversation so that execs are at the top where they should be driving the conversations and making the decisions, not the technologists or the business specialists at lower levels. That said, I do think there is plenty of value to keep reading. Fellow technologists, set your own ego aside and pay attention to the points the author makes, they are so important for successful adoption.
January 26, 2025
David De Cremer argues that AI adoption fails not due to technology but weak leadership. Many businesses focus on efficiency while neglecting the human aspect of AI integration. De Cremer stresses that leaders must guide AI’s role in enhancing, not replacing, human work.
The book is accessible and avoids technical jargon, making it ideal for non-technical leaders. De Cremer highlights how AI should support strategic goals rather than be a cost-cutting tool. His critique of AI as an efficiency-first initiative, rather than a human-centered strategy, is insightful.
While persuasive, the book lacks concrete strategies for leaders. It emphasizes leadership engagement but falls short on providing actionable steps. Additionally, it’s more of a leadership refresher than a deep AI implementation guide.
A valuable read for leaders navigating AI integration. It reinforces that AI success depends on leadership, not just technology. However, those seeking a practical implementation roadmap may find it lacking.
The book is accessible and avoids technical jargon, making it ideal for non-technical leaders. De Cremer highlights how AI should support strategic goals rather than be a cost-cutting tool. His critique of AI as an efficiency-first initiative, rather than a human-centered strategy, is insightful.
While persuasive, the book lacks concrete strategies for leaders. It emphasizes leadership engagement but falls short on providing actionable steps. Additionally, it’s more of a leadership refresher than a deep AI implementation guide.
A valuable read for leaders navigating AI integration. It reinforces that AI success depends on leadership, not just technology. However, those seeking a practical implementation roadmap may find it lacking.
October 5, 2024
Must read for all AI enthusiasts out there. This book doesn't teach you prompt engineering or any other technical skills. It's all about qualities a person should possess if he/she is managing AI based projects in company. The author has provided real life case studies which makes the topic more interesting.
April 30, 2025
Een onmogelijk boek om doorheen te komen. Cremer omschrijft 9 skills die een leider nodig heeft om succesvol AI te integreren in de organisatie.
Hoewel de inhoud best prima is, leest het voor geen meter. De tekst in het boek lijkt door copilot heen gehaald waardoor alles een beetje lang en wollig staat omschreven.
Geen aanrader.
Hoewel de inhoud best prima is, leest het voor geen meter. De tekst in het boek lijkt door copilot heen gehaald waardoor alles een beetje lang en wollig staat omschreven.
Geen aanrader.
February 3, 2025
This is a great introduction on how to handle the introduction of AI in your organization. The author provides 9 leadership traits one can lean on to make AI adoption ( or any organizational change) successfully.
June 13, 2024
4.5 stars
Review to come
Review to come
November 29, 2024
Great book. Simple and easy narrative. Practical suggestions. Go for it.
April 10, 2025
DNF skip this one.
December 11, 2025
Review to come...
October 7, 2025
Amplification. That’s the word that sticks with me. The AI-Savvy Leader makes it clear that success isn’t about swapping human cogs for automated ones - it’s about elevating people. To be truly savvy, to join the 5% of successful implementations, leaders have to start with their people. Understand how each individual’s impact can be amplified with the smart application of AI tools. This was a great read, one I will return to.
May 7, 2024
"The AI Savvy Leader" arrives at a crucial time, offering essential guidance for leaders across all sectors. This book is not a technical manual on generative AI and other tools; instead, it serves as a compelling call to action for leaders to integrate the strategic vision of their businesses or institutions with the opportunities presented by emerging technologies. De Cramer challenges leaders to engage directly with AI decision-making processes, rather than deferring these critical decisions to tech experts. Highly recommended for middle managers and above in any industry.
February 10, 2024
At present, when everyone is talking about Artificial intelligence, this book is very handy. There is a bunch of good information to digest and reflect on. It is important to understand what is artificial intelligence and what is not yourself prior to pushing all the resources to use it. Upon understanding, it is good to be clear what suits your organization and its needs, rather than following the hype. Communication is key like in any project and undertaking, this integration of artificial intelligence tools require the same approach. People need to understand, but in the benefits and get trained to support the efficiency of their jobs. With those simple steps it is possible to make strategic decisions to help your business grow and thrive.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews