Life in the Boardroom Survey Highlights AI Readiness Gap

AI is on the agenda, but the latest findings from MM&K’s Life in the Boardroom 2025/26 survey raise a key question: is it really under control? Drawing on insights from 435 board roles, the research highlights how Chairs and Non-Executive Directors are navigating the growing focus on AI, balancing rising interest with the need for stronger oversight and governance.

Key findings from the 2025/26 survey

What Chairs and NEDs report about AI adoption policy

78% of firms are engaging with AI at varying stages of progress. However, governance is lagging. Only 18% of companies have a formal AI policy in place, suggesting oversight and structure are still developing. Together, this points to a gap between growing interest in AI and the frameworks needed to manage it effectively.

What directors are saying

Beyond the headline findings, the report offers detailed analysis of directors’ fees, time commitments and their views on:

• How effectively their boards are functioning in practice.
• How well boards are addressing the strategic challenges, including ESG and AI.
• The matters which are of most concern to them.

Explore the full results

More detailed analysis on the remuneration, time use, opinions, and experiences of Chairs and NEDs can be found in our 80+ page report on 435 boardroom positions. Click here for a free preview. Find out more about Life in the Boardroom, please click here or contact Margarita Skripina.

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