Leadership development** is a central building block for sustainable corporate success. In the context of modern challenges, particularly digitalisation and the use of artificial intelligence, this area is becoming increasingly important. The innovative KIROI Step 9 concept takes the development of leadership skills to the next level in a targeted manner - towards the so-called competence elite. The focus is on practical support, individual development plans and targeted skills development.
Leadership development: importance and challenges
In today's working world, managers are not only managers, but also initiators and pioneers of change. This considerably increases the demands on their skills. Leadership development accompanies this process through systematic measures such as coaching, mentoring, workshops and on-the-job learning [1][3][5].
A typical example from the financial sector shows how managers are trained to integrate AI-supported decision-making processes in a safe and ethically responsible manner. In this way, they learn to fulfil regulatory requirements and protect human values at the same time [2][6]. In the logistics sector, leadership development supports the optimisation of route planning and resource management through the targeted use of AI algorithms, which reduces costs and makes processes more efficient [2][6]. In the energy sector, on the other hand, training promotes the competent use of digital control systems and automated analyses that lead to more sustainable use of resources [2][6].
KIROI Step 9 as a milestone in management development
The KIROI approach supports companies in specifically developing management skills in dealing with artificial intelligence. Step 9 of the programme focuses on analysing existing skills and developing individual development plans that combine technical skills with leadership qualities [2][4][6].
Skills such as productive collaboration with AI systems are taught in practical workshops, digital learning modules and coaching sessions. The focus is not only on technical knowledge, but also on promoting agility and a willingness to learn digitally. Managers are empowered to overcome resistance within their teams and actively shape innovation processes [2][4].
BEST PRACTICE with one customer (name hidden due to NDA contract) a programme specifically geared towards AI skills was established in an energy supply company. Through targeted coaching and practical application scenarios, managers were able to expand their technological skills, which improved collaboration with technical specialists and strengthened a corporate culture that promotes innovation. The result was a future-proof management team that is actively shaping the digital transformation.
Diverse methods for sustainable leadership development
Management development draws on a wide range of methods to cover different learning needs and promote sustainable development. Formal training formats such as seminars, workshops and leadership programmes can be combined with informal formats such as mentoring and coaching. Learning on the job is another important building block in which managers can test and reflect on new skills directly in their day-to-day work [1][3][7].
For example, job rotation in a manufacturing company enables division managers to familiarise themselves with different areas of the company and thus gain a holistic view of business processes. At the same time, they expand their network and gain valuable experience in different management situations. At the same time, mentoring strengthens personal development through dialogue with experienced managers who provide targeted feedback and suggestions [1][5][7].
Practical tips for designing effective development processes
It is recommended that management development is successfully supported:
- Start with a careful needs analysis to identify individual strengths and areas for development and address them in a targeted manner [2][5].
- Combine a variety of learning formats such as digital modules, face-to-face workshops and individual coaching to ensure flexibility and practical relevance [3][6].
- Ensure the transfer of learning into practice, e.g. through accompanying reflections and regular feedback, so that new competences are firmly anchored [5][7].
- When integrating new technologies such as AI, also take employees' emotions and fears into account and promote open communication [6][8].
My analysis
Leadership development remains a dynamic and multi-layered process that is becoming even more complex with digitalisation and the introduction of artificial intelligence. With a methodically thought-out, individualised approach such as KIROI Step 9, managers are empowered not only to master traditional management tasks, but also to use digital skills as the key to corporate success. Companies benefit from a skills elite that actively shapes change and drives innovation.
Further links from the text above:
Forum Verlag: Leadership development - Methods
KIROI Step 9: Leadership development for AI expertise
Haufe Akademie: Leadership development - Guidebook
TT Digi: AI as an opportunity for management skills
KIROI and leadership development in the digital transformation
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