AI skills vary among Irish business chiefs

A snap poll of 378 C-suite executives found 50% identify as intermediate users, with a further 35% at beginner level, signalling broad engagement but uneven depth of confidence

The findings of the survey of business heads also showed that 61% of organisations have already implemented AI to a certain/high degree.

A survey of business heads in Ireland found their AI skills and ability vary significantly, with the majority classifying themselves as beginner or intermediate users.

The Institute of Directors (IoD) in Ireland conducted a snap poll of 378 C-suite executives on their use of digital and AI tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot.

Half of the respondents identify as intermediate users, with a further 35% at beginner level, signalling broad engagement but uneven depth of confidence.

With the Government’s overview of the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill 2026 now published, readiness among respondents appears low, with 65% reporting they do not understand what the Government’s new AI rules will mean for their organisation.

Similarly, 64% of directors believe that they, and their organisations, are not equipped for the implementation of the bill.

However, 78% say AI is important or critical for competitiveness in their sector.

When asked about reliance on AI-generated summaries for board papers, 76% of respondents said such outputs should only supplement — and not replace — their personal review of board materials. 

Only 6% believe that AI summaries can be relied upon as a primary tool.

The findings also showed that 61% of organisations have already implemented AI to a certain/high degree, and a further 34% are evaluating future use.

However, just 33% have a formal strategy in place that incorporates the effective use of AI, while 43% are only now beginning to develop one, and 24% do not.

Business leaders recognise the transformative potential of AI

IoD Ireland chief Caroline Spillane said the research provides a clear message: 

“Irish leaders recognise the transformative potential of AI, but the pace of adoption is outstripping the development of governance, skills, and regulatory preparedness.

“With more than half of organisations already using AI tools, boards must now ensure they have the literacy, guardrails, and oversight mechanisms required to deploy AI responsibly,” Ms Spillane said.

“However, just one-third of respondents have a formal strategy in place that incorporates the effective use of AI, while 43% are only now beginning to develop one.”