AI Shifts Focus from Tasks to Relationships as Human Managers Take the Lead

Executives at the Fortune Brainstorm AI conference in San Francisco on Tuesday emphasized the importance of human managers in the era of artificial intelligence. According to the panel session hosted by Workday, software is increasingly stripping out drudgery and redefining good management as coaching, judgment, and emotional leadership rather than task supervision. Stefano Corazza, Canvas head of AI research, stated that the company's goal is to build AI around people to give them superpowers, not to replace managers' strategic decision-making or soft skills. Aashna Kircher, group general manager in the Office of the CHRO at Workday, noted that many managers still spend too much time on tedious tasks, and AI agents can remove much of that burden. However, Kircher emphasized that companies must also reset expectations, hold managers accountable, and train them in judgment, decision-making, and creativity. Kircher suggested that companies should reflect on questions such as: "What does it mean to be the best coach or the best team enabler?" and "What are the skill sets that you now have to grow in your teams in an era of AI, where the expectation is judgment, decision-making, and creativity?" This shift in focus requires managers to develop new skills and adapt to the changing work environment. The increasing use of AI in the workplace has led to concerns about job displacement and the role of human managers. However, experts argue that AI is designed to augment human capabilities, not replace them. By automating routine tasks, AI can free up managers to focus on higher-level tasks that require creativity, empathy, and strategic thinking. As AI continues to evolve, companies are reevaluating their management structures and training programs. Workday, a leading provider of cloud-based financial management and human capital management solutions, is at the forefront of this shift. The company's emphasis on building AI around people reflects its commitment to creating a more human-centered work environment. The Fortune Brainstorm AI conference provided a platform for executives to discuss the implications of AI on management and the workforce. The panel session highlighted the need for companies to adapt to the changing work environment and invest in the development of their managers. As AI continues to transform the workplace, it is clear that human managers will play a critical role in shaping the future of work.