Paper Type
Complete
Abstract
As artificial intelligence (AI) gains strategic importance, organizations must reconsider their existing leadership roles and management structures. Therefore, this study examines the emerging role of the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (CAIO) as a new leadership position at the interface of technology, strategy, and organization. The goal is to analyze the strategic potential, structural anchoring, and different responsibilities between CAIOs and traditional IT executives. Using a design science research approach, combining interviews with C-level experts and a systematic literature review, a responsibility matrix is developed that systematically captures the operational, technological, and transformative scope of the CAIO. The findings show that CAIOs add value to organizations, especially when AI is a key driver of business innovation, operational efficiency, and long-term profitability. Further, the CAIO complements existing IT executives rather than replacing them. However, the need and effectiveness of this role depend on strategic integration, resource allocation, and an organization-wide governance structure.
Paper Number
1772
Recommended Citation
Kučević, Emir; Leible, Stephan; Schanz, Niklas; and Grünewald, Frederik, "Do CAIOs Replace Traditional CIOs? An Investigation into the Responsibilities of IT Executives in the Age of Artificial Intelligence" (2026). AMCIS 2026 Proceedings. 3.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/amcis2026/sig_lead/sig_lead/3
Do CAIOs Replace Traditional CIOs? An Investigation into the Responsibilities of IT Executives in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
As artificial intelligence (AI) gains strategic importance, organizations must reconsider their existing leadership roles and management structures. Therefore, this study examines the emerging role of the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (CAIO) as a new leadership position at the interface of technology, strategy, and organization. The goal is to analyze the strategic potential, structural anchoring, and different responsibilities between CAIOs and traditional IT executives. Using a design science research approach, combining interviews with C-level experts and a systematic literature review, a responsibility matrix is developed that systematically captures the operational, technological, and transformative scope of the CAIO. The findings show that CAIOs add value to organizations, especially when AI is a key driver of business innovation, operational efficiency, and long-term profitability. Further, the CAIO complements existing IT executives rather than replacing them. However, the need and effectiveness of this role depend on strategic integration, resource allocation, and an organization-wide governance structure.
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