Reflection — AI governance cannot be delegated

McKinsey measured what the chief executive's place in AI governance changes: only 28% of organizations that use AI put that oversight in the CEO's hands — yet it is the factor most strongly correlated with real bottom-line impact. Most companies delegate the subject to the technical function; decisions then become tool choices rather than business choices. Deciding which projects live, which risks are acceptable and who must change how they work is the leadership's job, not a vendor's. For an SMB or mid-sized company, the translation is simple: a monthly review of AI projects chaired by the CEO in person, tracking two indicators — actual adoption by teams and impact on the P&L.

Source: McKinsey, "The State of AI: How organizations are rewiring to capture value," March 2025 (1,491 respondents).