British businesses are focusing on redesigning roles to support human-AI collaboration, according to KPMG’s 2026 global CEO outlook. Most chief executives are actively restructuring their workforce to adapt to technology, with 77% hiring new AI/tech talent.
Investment in AI remains a top priority for global business leaders, and 87% of British bosses anticipate a return on this investment within three years. However, 81% of these bosses find the ethical considerations surrounding AI to be challenging.
Despite this focus on AI, workforce challenges persist, including an ongoing skills gap and the need to upskill employees for AI. Additionally, 21% of UK bosses report resistance from staff regarding a return to the office.
Jon Holt, group chief executive KPMG UK and Switzerland, stated that human judgement is fundamental to AI success, emphasising the importance of human skills like empathy, judgement, and emotional intelligence.
While 86% of British bosses expressed confidence in their company's three-year growth prospects, confidence in broader UK economic growth has fallen from 79% to 64%. Chief executives are reportedly awaiting the Budget for policy certainty and government plans for economic growth.