Management development: With KIROI step 9 to AI competence

Why leadership development today means more than traditional management

Leadership development is no longer just about teaching traditional management skills. In a world characterised by digitalisation and artificial intelligence, leaders are confronted with new challenges. This is precisely why the integration of AI expertise into management development is becoming increasingly important. Anyone who wants to lead successfully today needs not only social and methodological skills but also a sound understanding of digital technologies and their potential applications in everyday working life[4][6].

Many companies report that traditional seminars alone are no longer sufficient to cover the future requirements for managers. This is why modern concepts are being developed that focus specifically on digital transformation, agile working methods and the competent use of AI systems. One such approach is the KIROI model, which focuses on the development of AI skills among managers in step 9[2][4].

Leadership development with KIROI Step 9: Practical paths to AI expertise

KIROI Step 9 is not a grey theory, but provides concrete, everyday methods to qualify managers for the requirements of an AI-supported working world. At its core, it is about ensuring that managers not only know how AI tools work, but also how they can integrate them into their teams and use them for strategic decisions[2][4].

For example, participants learn in practical workshops how to carry out AI-supported market analyses and incorporate the results directly into their decision-making processes. This creates options for action that actually improve day-to-day business. In a retail company, on the other hand, managers use AI systems to optimise supply chains. They receive specific instructions on how they can support their employees in the introduction of new technologies and take their needs into account[2].

Examples from practice

The benefits of AI-supported process monitoring are particularly evident in the production environment. Managers who have been specifically trained use algorithms to optimise processes and at the same time increase the innovative strength of their team. They learn not only to understand the technology, but also to inspire their staff to embrace change and actively shape change processes[6].

In the financial sector, we train managers in the safe application of AI-supported risk analyses. This ensures compliance and builds trust in new technologies at the same time. AI tools are also becoming increasingly important in marketing in order to analyse customer behaviour and adapt marketing strategies based on data[2].

Another example is the optimisation of routines in the logistics sector. Here, we help managers to utilise intelligent algorithms and hone their analytical skills at the same time. This makes operational processes more efficient and collaboration between technical and administrative teams closer and more innovative[4].

BEST PRACTICE with one customer (name hidden due to NDA contract) We implemented a development programme based on KIROI Step 9 at a leading international energy supply company. The programme focused on strengthening AI skills through individual coaching, practical workshops and direct transfer to day-to-day management. Participants learnt how to combine technical expertise, social skills and methodological approaches. The programme not only promoted a culture of innovation, but also significantly improved the exchange between specialist departments. Today, managers report increased agility and greater satisfaction within the team. This creates measurable added value through targeted management development with an AI focus.

Strategic building blocks of management development

Truly sustainable leadership development goes beyond individual measures and relies on a systematic approach. This first involves analysing needs in order to identify individual and organisational development goals[5]. Typical challenges include dealing with hybrid teams, leading in change processes and integrating new technologies.

The planning of measures is directly linked to the objective. For example, a multi-stage learning programme for divisional managers can consist of online modules, face-to-face workshops and peer coaching in order to gradually strengthen their leadership maturity[5]. The programme is implemented in a practical manner: each module concludes with tasks that are implemented in everyday working life. Monitoring and regular feedback ensure the transfer into practice. Finally, the effectiveness of the programme is measured through targeted evaluation and readjusted if necessary[5].

Diversity of methods as a success factor

Modern leadership development utilises a variety of methods - from seminars and coaching to mentoring, job rotation and action learning[1][3]. Formats that combine theory and practice are particularly effective, for example by working on real projects or exchanging ideas with experienced managers. This keeps learning close to what is needed and promotes motivation.

In industry, innovative companies are focussing on a combination of technical training and social learning. One car manufacturer, for example, is training managers to digitalise production with the help of AI, while at the same time creating a corporate culture that promotes openness to change. Another example is a chemical company that offers leadership programmes with a digital focus in order to drive forward the transformation to a data-driven organisation.

In the service sector, companies use 360-degree feedback to evaluate management performance from different perspectives and to realise targeted potential. Through job rotation, managers also gain a holistic understanding of business processes and expand their network within the company[1][3].

Transruption coaching as a companion in leadership development

Our clients often come to us with questions about digital transformation, AI strategies or the development of agile leadership skills. Here, we focus specifically on transformation coaching, which supports managers in change processes and provides impetus for sustainable development. The focus is on individual needs as well as organisational goals.

Typical topics include the introduction of new technologies, the organisation of innovation processes or dealing with resistance within the team. Together, we develop practical solutions that are tailored to the respective corporate cosmos. This creates a common thread that extends from strategy to implementation and consistently links management development with the requirements of the digital world.

My analysis

Today more than ever, management development is a decisive success factor for companies that want to survive in the digital age. Those who provide their managers with targeted training will gain a sustainable competitive advantage - especially when it comes to successfully integrating technological innovations such as artificial intelligence. KIROI Step 9 shows how practical and effective modern management development can be, strengthening both professional and social skills.

The best results are achieved by companies that rely on a mix of formal and informal training, obtain regular feedback and actively promote the transfer of knowledge into everyday life. In this way, managers not only develop the ability to shape change, but also become pillars of an innovation-friendly corporate culture. Especially in times of rapid technological developments, it is worth investing in targeted management development - for more agility, motivation and future viability throughout the entire company.

Further links from the text above:

• How can leadership development succeed? - Methods, ... [1]
• Step 9 to AI expertise with KIROI [2]
• Leadership development: Comprehensive guide [3]
• With KIROI step 9 to AI expertise [4]
• Leadership development with AI expertise [6]

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