The boardroom skills gap behind AI ambition in the FTSE

New analysis of FTSE 100 annual reports reveals a widening gap between technology ambition and workforce readiness. While 69% of companies now cite technology as a strategic priority and AI references have doubled since 2018, fewer than one in 10 identify skills and training as a board-level focus.

Only 34% reference AI training for employees, despite growing investment in emerging technologies. The findings suggest many organisations risk undermining their AI strategies by underinvesting in workforce capability. The report highlights the need for targeted upskilling, workforce skills reviews and stronger alignment between technology priorities and people strategy.

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