Transformations in the roles and skills of middle managers in the era of GAI (Generative Artificial Intelligence): an analysis through activity theory

Transformations des rôles et compétences des managers intermédiaires à l'ère des IAG (Intelligences Artificielles Génératives): une analyse à travers la théorie de l'activité

Philippe Jean-Baptiste
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Philippe Jean-Baptiste: LEST - Laboratoire d'Economie et de Sociologie du Travail - AMU - Aix Marseille Université - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique

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Abstract: This ongoing research explores how generative artificial intelligence (GAI) technologies are transforming the roles and skills of middle managers. Grounded in activity theory and a critical realist epistemology, it adopts a qualitative approach based on semi-structured interviews conducted across three organizations (currently in progress): a large company (30 interviews), a medium-sized enterprise (MSE) (15 interviews), and a small business (15 interviews). Preliminary findings suggest that GAI fosters bottom-up innovation dynamics, challenging traditional governance structures. Middle managers are emerging as facilitators of change, requiring enhanced conceptual and human skills to effectively integrate GAI into strategic and operational processes. Furthermore, the phenomenon of Shadow IT highlights opportunities for innovation but also reveals risks, particularly regarding data security and compliance. This study will provide practical recommendations to support middle managers in navigating this technological transition.

Keywords: Generative artificial intelligence (GAI); middle managers; organizational transformation; Shadow IT; managerial skills; Intelligence artificielle générative (IAG); managers intermédiaires; transformation organisationnelle; Compétences managériales (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025-05-21
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Published in 30e Conférence de l’Association Information et Management, AIM : Association Information Management, May 2025, Lyon, France

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