IMD AI Update, Leadership as a key factor in the age of AI

A congress for managers who want to actively shape AI

The IMD AI Update Congress is a one-day format for decision-makers who not only want to understand artificial intelligence, but also consciously use and further develop it. The focus is on real-life use cases, experience reports from companies and the question of how leadership remains effective in the age of AI. Honest, relevant and at eye level.

Powerful insights from business, research and corporate practice

Yesterday’s program offered a variety of perspectives from business and research as well as concrete insights from companies such as Alpiq, Bossard Group and Accelleron. Particularly valuable were the practical decision stories that showed how differently organizations deal with AI and which strategic decisions are necessary. One highlight was the CEO panel with Antje Kanngiesser, Daniel Bossard and Daniel Bischofberger, which deepened the discussion on responsibility, decision-making and long-term orientation.

AI is not an IT topic, but a management task

One of the key findings of the day ran consistently through all the sessions: AI is not just an IT topic. The technology is available, the real difference comes from culture, attitude and leadership. Successful AI transformation does not mean introducing as many tools as possible, but rather providing orientation, setting priorities and taking people with you on this journey.

Transformation needs attitude, not just technology

It was emphasized several times that managers today need to provide orientation rather than answers. Employees want to be empowered to integrate AI into their day-to-day work in a meaningful way instead of being left alone with new tools. Transformation is rarely linear. Sticking with it, learning, readjusting and creating trust are decisive factors for sustainable success.

Our participation, close to practice and decision-makers

The Online Group was represented on site by Marco Denzler and Ralf Angermann, Head of AI Solutions. For us, direct exchange with other managers, companies and technology partners is key. Only those who stay close to real issues, successes and challenges can correctly classify developments and derive well-founded recommendations for customers.

Marco Denzler (left) and Ralf Angermann (right) at the IMD AI Update 2026

Expanding partnerships and perspectives

The presence of our partner Microsoft on stage was also particularly pleasing. Marc’s contribution once again underlined the importance of strong partnerships in order to combine technological innovation with business reality. The dialog between technology providers, research and companies creates precisely the perspectives that are needed for the responsible use of AI.

Marc Holitscher from Microsoft during his keynote speech at the IMD AI Update 2026

Conclusion: leadership determines the success of AI

The IMD AI Update Congress impressively demonstrated that AI is here to stay. However, whether it creates real added value is decided at management level. For the Online Group, participation in such formats is an important part of recognizing trends at an early stage, critically reflecting on them and designing future-proof solutions together with customers.

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