AI Advantage Gap Widens as Senior Leaders Outpace Junior Staff in Tool Adoption

Widening Gap in AI Tool Usage Between Senior Leaders and Junior Staff

New research highlights a growing divide in how AI tools are used across different levels of an organization. Senior leaders are adopting AI at a much higher rate than junior staff, which raises concerns about uneven productivity gains. The Work that Works report from Employment Hero reveals that nearly 75% of senior managers in the UK use AI tools monthly, while only 32% of entry-level employees do the same.

This gap, referred to as the “AI advantage gap,” is especially pronounced in small businesses. Leadership teams benefit from automation and support tools, but many junior employees are left behind. Contrary to popular belief, millennials—not Gen Z—are the most frequent AI users, which challenges assumptions about younger workers leading AI adoption.

Impact on Productivity and Performance

The divide in AI usage is more than just a numbers game; it affects workplace performance. Employees excluded from AI initiatives report a 50% drop in productivity. Similarly, firms slow to adopt AI see a comparable decline. This suggests that AI adoption is becoming a key factor in maintaining competitive performance.

Smaller companies face an even greater challenge. Businesses with fewer than 50 employees are half as likely to have introduced AI tools. Many describe themselves as being in “survival mode,” investing less in technology and digital skills, which risks widening the productivity gap further.

AI as a Support Tool, Not a Shortcut

The report also dispels the myth that AI is a shortcut or a way to cut corners. Among regular users, 40% say AI reduces feelings of overwhelm, while 38% notice improvements in the quality of their work. This stresses the value of AI as a tool that supports employees rather than replacing effort.

Closing the Gap: A Human-Centred Approach

Current AI adoption strategies are failing to reach enough people across organizations. A more inclusive approach is needed—one that starts with leadership but quickly extends to every level of the business. Closing this gap isn’t just critical for individual companies; it affects the broader economy as well.

For managers looking to bridge this divide, prioritizing AI training and access for all employees is key. Investing in digital skills development can help ensure the benefits of AI tools are shared more evenly.

• Encourage AI adoption beyond senior management.
• Provide accessible AI training for junior staff.
• Integrate AI tools that enhance, not overwhelm, daily tasks.
• Monitor productivity impact and adjust strategies accordingly.

For those interested in empowering their teams with AI skills, Complete AI Training offers a range of courses tailored to different job roles and experience levels.