Directors Identified AI as Top Board Skill Gap
A PwC survey reveals that artificial intelligence expertise has become the primary concern for corporate board members.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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Public company directors have named artificial intelligence as the most critical skill gap currently affecting their oversight capabilities. Survey results indicate this concern significantly outweighs the need for broader digital transformation expertise.
Why it matters
Boards recognize that a lack of technical fluency in artificial intelligence acts as a barrier to fulfilling their fiduciary responsibilities. Bridging this oversight gap is essential for managing the risks and strategic opportunities presented by emerging technology.
In PwC's latest survey of public company board members, 71% of participants identified artificial intelligence as their most significant skill deficiency. This figure is more than double the percentage of respondents who prioritized broader technology and digital transformation expertise.
The players
PwC
PwC is a global professional services network that provides audit, tax, and consulting services to public and private companies.
The details
Corporate leaders acknowledge that insufficient knowledge regarding AI is a major obstacle to providing effective board-level oversight. The data highlights a growing realization that traditional technology management skills may be inadequate for navigating the current AI-dominated landscape.
Timeline
PwC conducted the annual corporate directors survey from March to May 2026.
The 2026 annual survey results were officially released on September 23, 2026.
The Tech Race
This trend highlights a major shift in corporate governance, where specialized AI knowledge is replacing legacy digital transformation as the primary mandate for board composition. This realignment positions companies to compete in an era where AI competency is becoming a benchmark of institutional readiness.
For investors and corporate stakeholders, this shift means that board members will likely prioritize hiring experts or requiring specialized training for leadership positions. This change may lead to more rigorous risk assessment protocols regarding AI adoption in the products and services customers use daily.
The takeaway
The rapid prioritization of AI skills suggests that oversight of emerging technology has become a core competency for modern business leaders. Shareholders should expect boards to increase their focus on digital literacy as a standard requirement for all future leadership appointments.
Further reading
For broader trends on how companies are integrating new tools, visit our Artificial Intelligence section.
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