Chasing the AI Mirage: Execs Struggle Under Boardroom Pressure

Unrealistic Demands from the Top

As artificial intelligence dominates boardroom conversations, C-suite leaders across industries are increasingly alarmed by the gap between executive expectations and the current state of AI capabilities. A new report by Kin + Carta reveals that 75% of tech leaders believe their boards have “unrealistic expectations” for AI, demanding rapid returns and innovation at a pace many say is unsustainable. While interest in AI remains high—particularly generative AI—most organizations are under-equipped in terms of skills, infrastructure, or governance to meet these ambitious goals. The result is rising pressure on digital teams as strategic AI planning collides with a lack of foundational readiness.

Talent Shortfalls and Strategic Blocks

Despite significant investment in AI exploration, many companies remain stuck in pilot mode, unable to scale efforts due to a shortage of skilled workers and outdated internal systems. The study also found that 46% of board-level executives don’t fully understand how AI works, placing further strain on implementation as misaligned visions circulate from the top. Meanwhile, digital leaders are being tasked with managing AI initiatives on uncertain ground—forced to innovate amid ambiguity while trying to educate stakeholders. Until there’s more alignment between executive vision and technological realities, that disconnect could stall meaningful adoption.