Executives Confused Over Who Controls Corporate AI Strategy Amid Massive Spending

Pearl Meyer’s second-quarter 2026 Market Intelligence Survey shows that just 34% of C-suite executives can point to a specific individual or group responsible for AI strategy, the lowest figure across all cohorts. Board members report a higher certainty at 53%, and senior managers below the C-level reach 57%. Ironically, those closest to day-to-day AI implementation are the least convinced that ownership is defined.

Yet 78% of these managers believe their firms possess the senior talent required for effective AI deployment. Gartner estimates total AI spending, including infrastructure, will reach $2.5 trillion this year—a 44% jump from the prior year—and climb to $3.3 trillion next year. CEOs feel their positions are at risk if AI projects falter, and many anticipate major organizational changes to meet strategic goals. Pearl Meyer warns that continued investment without clear accountability could exacerbate the gap between AI aspirations and results, potentially leading to internal conflict and turnover.