Leadership playbooks: a theoretical framework for managing AI’s transformative potential in organizations

Document Type

Article

Source of Publication

Leadership and Organization Development Journal

Publication Date

4-24-2026

Abstract

Purpose – This paper develops theoretical frameworks for managing artificial intelligence’s (AI) transformative potential within organizations through leadership playbooks, exploring how organizations can integrate AI effectively, while preserving ethical standards and organizational effectiveness. Design/methodology/approach – A theoretical framework emerges through narrative literature review and analysis of contemporary leadership practices within AI-enabled organizations. Findings – The research demonstrates that successful AI integration demands multifaceted leadership playbooks addressing technical, organizational and ethical dimensions while prioritizing human-centric approaches to technological transformation. Research limitations/implications – This study provides theoretical foundations for understanding how leadership practices must evolve to manage AI integration effectively while preserving organizational effectiveness and ethical standards. Practical implications – Organizations can apply the developed framework to create comprehensive leadership playbooks guiding AI implementation while addressing associated risks and challenges. Originality/value – This paper presents a novel theoretical framework for developing leadership playbooks in AI-enabled organizations, contributing to academic literature and practical organizational management.

ISSN

0143-7739

Publisher

Emerald

Volume

47

Issue

2

First Page

309

Last Page

321

Disciplines

Business

Keywords

Artificial intelligence leadership, Digital leadership, Ethical AI implementation, Leadership development, Organizational transformation

Scopus ID

105039397002

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

Link to Full Text

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