Date of Award

2025

Degree Name

Leadership Studies

College

College of Education and Professional Development

Type of Degree

Ed.D.

Document Type

Dissertation

First Advisor

Dr. Tammy Johnson

Second Advisor

Dr. Ronald Childress

Third Advisor

Dr. David Fish

Abstract

The emergence of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has introduced new complexities for organizational leadership, requiring technology professionals to adapt in real time to evolving digital tools, strategic demands, and cultural dynamics. Although prior research has examined AI’s broad influence on business processes, few studies have explored how technology leaders experience and interpret the leadership challenges and opportunities arising from GenAI. This qualitative dissertation addressed that gap by investigating the perceptions of senior technology professionals regarding GenAI’s influence on leadership roles, competencies, decision making, and organizational culture. Using Lanigan’s (1977) phenomenological method of human science, this study explored the lived experiences of 20 U.S.-based technology leaders at the director level or above across multiple industries. I conducted semistructured interviews to examine how GenAI is reshaping leadership expectations, particularly in adaptability, ethical governance, workforce development, and cross-functional influence. The analysis identified 21 themes, which were synthesized into three integrative patterns: the reconstruction of leader identity and capabilities, the growing importance of governance and decision-making frameworks, and the cultural and learning dynamics that influence organizational readiness. Findings indicated that GenAI is accelerating changes in leadership identity, decision velocity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Participants described shifting from command-based leadership models to those emphasizing sensemaking, transparency, and continuous learning. Leaders also acknowledged the dual challenge of fostering innovation while managing ethical risk, talent disruption, and organizational trust. Many participants reported heightened expectations for technical fluency, strategic foresight, and emotional intelligence in GenAI-era leadership. This study contributes to the scholarly understanding of leadership in technological transitions. The results underscore the need for adaptive, human-centered leadership strategies to guide organizations through the uncertainty of GenAI adoption.

Subject(s)

Leadership -- Adaptation.

Decision making.

Generative artificial intelligence.

Corporate culture.

Phenomenology.

Leadership -- Technology.

Organizational behavior.

Management.

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