Leadership by Algorithm: Who Leads and Who Follows in the AI Era

by David De Cremer

With artificial intelligence on the rise, the way we run our organisations will change - and drastically. But what exactly will that future look like? And who will take the leading Machines or people?

In this compelling new audiobook, leading management guru David De Cremer identifies the key areas where algorithms will collide with human skills, and assesses the likely outcomes.

Will your next boss be a robot? Can an AI boss display the human qualities that define a good Compassion, empathy, imagination, ethics, and strategic awareness?

Drawing on his own research findings, and those from thought leaders around the world, the author presents fascinating insights into the challenges that an automated work environment poses for organisations of the future.

Leadership by Algorithm offers some startling conclusions that make clear the true nature of the power struggle between man and machine. It also identifies the leadership qualities needed to deal with this struggle most effectively.

Genres: Leadership, Business, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Buisness, Management, Nonfiction

Audible Audio

Published June 24, 2020

Reviews

[Oyku · Rating 3 out of 5]

Discussion in this book is too simplistic, abstract and only conceptual. No practical examples or suggestions. No cases where some organizational processes are showcased. Nothing to inform current leaders on how to better use the algorithms an automation. I was hoping for more.

[Tin Wee · Rating 1 out of 5]

A very disappointing read. Had expected an analysis on the development of AI , how AI would affect industries, projections of future development tracks where AI was concerned, social/ economic impacts of AI, and mankind's place in the world. Instead, was treated to rather simplistic view of AI, and how humans (or more specifically, the reader) should hone our leadership skills to have a vision, understand AI, so that we can rally others to get buy in. No mention of the social- economic impacts that humans will have to face, or what new jobs (if any) will be created. This is more of a feel good book to enhance your own leadership skills, of which plenty are available for cheaper. Stay away.

[Artem Rodichev · Rating 3 out of 5]

Бросил где то после 1/3. Какие то довольно банальные мысли вкупе с унылым повествованием. Харрари в своих книгах касается аналогичных тем в значительно более задорной манере.

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Professor De Cremer did an excellent job in providing deep and unique insights for future business leaders in the AI era.
A clear, well written, concise book explaining the importance of a purpose-driven leadership and a well-run organisation, how humans can complement and empower AI given their limitations.
Most importantly how humans can use their intuitive mind to tweak their leadership style according to the business context, so that both humans and AI can collaborate together and thrive in a new culture diversity where humans lead and algorithms manage.

Did a research of the author before getting this book. Most influential economist in the Netherlands and world's top 30 management gurus and speakers in 2020. Definitely a must-read for anyone that is interested in leadership and AI!

Chapter 1: Entering a New Era
Chapter 2: The Leadership Challenge in the Algorithm Age
Chapter 3: Leading by Algorithm: Rushing In
Chapter 4: Management Controls, Leadership
Chapter 5: Bridging Management and Algorithms
Chapter 6: Algorithms and Leadership
Chapter 7: The Day that Empowerment Changed
Chapter 8: Co-Creation as a New Beginning
Chapter 9: The Art of Leadership: Purpose and Inclusion
Chapter 10: What Will Be and What Should Be

[Alvin Soh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is a very important and good topic to read and discuss in the first place. Algorithm has tremendous impact on human life and it will gain Ben more prominence. It’s a question of how human work with it.

A few takeaways from this book:

1. There is a need of mindset shift, that we must be co-living with algorithm, rather than competing. Ultimately, algorithm is here to serve us with superior cognitive power.

2. There is a need of leadership shift, that people leads, algorithm manages. Leadership will shift to be focusing on (a) purpose (visionary & ethical aspects) and (b) inclusion (connecting, trustworthiness, diversity & humility aspects).

3. There is a need of refocusing in education, on “sense-making”. This covers (a) motivation (empathy & ethical judgment); (b) cognition (critical thinking, curiosity & agility) and (c) emotion (imagination, creativity, emotional intelligence) aspects.

[Alireza Hejazi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a fascinating exploration of the intersection between technology and leadership. It examines how algorithms are increasingly being used to make decisions in the workplace and how this is impacting the role of leaders. It is an examination of the impact of AI on leadership. It explains how AI can help create better leaders and how it is already being used in the workplace. It also provides readers with practical strategies for organizations to use AI to enhance their leadership strategies. The book emphasizes the need for human leaders to work with algorithms rather than simply replace them. It can be very helpful to leaders and leadership researchers, especially those who are fascinated by artificial intelligence (AI) these days and are interested in understanding how leadership and technology may intersect. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of work and the impact of technology on organizations.

[Murat Girgin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I particularly appreciated the nuanced discussion of trust dynamics between humans and algorithms—something rarely addressed with such clarity. While occasionally repetitive and perhaps overly optimistic about implementation timelines, the book provides invaluable frameworks for determining which leadership aspects should remain human-driven versus algorithm-led.
Essential reading for anyone in a leadership position navigating digital transformation. De Cremer doesn't just describe the algorithmic future of leadership—he provides a roadmap for maintaining humanity in an increasingly automated workplace.

If you're looking for a more concise breakdown, check out my summary and key takeaways here:
https://medium.com/@murat.girgin/lead...

[Devesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Which management and leadership tasks within an organization might be efficiently performed by AI, and in which tasks will humans retain their advantage? The book handles this question deftly, drawing insights from a remarkably broad range of literature - in psychology, management studies, philosophy and computer science, to name a few. In so doing, De Cremer offers piercing insights about what the future of leadership might look like, and how to prepare for this future. And, it also helps that his prose is accessible and engaging! A highly-recommended read.

[Pranjali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well the book definitely cleared some fears and misconceptions I had. What was a complete game changer for me was when the author pointed out that "mangers manage". Although a bit dragged on, I like the nuances he pointed out and skills that are valuable to leadership of the future.
I definitely feel like I'm more open to reading and understanding AI more than I was before - purely out of denial haha.

[Pieter Boghe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding book for anybody who wants to learn about Artificial Intelligence and the effects it has/will have on leadership. Mister De Cremer expresses his profound knowledge on a complex subject in a very informative yet easy to read way. A definite must-read!

[Brooke Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thought provoking and interesting perspective on leadership and how human leadership will co-exist with, clash with, or be superior to AI.

[Kathryn Tinker · Rating 2 out of 5]

Feels like author had a lot of existing content on purpose-driven and inclusive leadership, then superficially reformulated to be for AI.