Singapore CEOs risk jobs if AI falls short

Eighty-six percent say their roles could be at risk if they fail to deliver measurable gains from AI.

Singapore chief executives are under growing pressure to prove returns from artificial intelligence as companies expand adoption whilst keeping tighter human control over critical decisions.

Andrew Boyd, Senior Vice President and General Manager for Asia Pacific and Japan at Dataiku, said AI investments have yet to consistently translate into returns, putting responsibility on chief executives and boards to demonstrate measurable value.

Dataiku’s survey found 86% of Singapore CEOs believe their role could be at risk if they fail to deliver measurable AI gains, compared with 80% globally. Another 80% believe a CEO could be ousted because of a failed AI strategy or crisis, above the 77% global figure.

Boyd said companies scaling AI need to measure outcomes, monitor risks and maintain oversight. Without governance frameworks, businesses may struggle to ensure investments remain aligned with their objectives.

Unapproved or “shadow AI” creates another accountability challenge. Boyd said employees using external AI tools could expose confidential information by entering sensitive company data into models without appropriate controls.

Companies therefore need visibility over sensitive data, approved AI models and traceability over how employees use the technology.

Despite enthusiasm for automation, APAC CEOs remain cautious about allowing AI to make consequential decisions independently. More than a quarter, or 26%, said AI never makes business-critical decisions autonomously, compared with 17% globally. Only 12% said AI often acts autonomously with human monitoring afterwards, versus 19% globally.

Boyd said traditional governance processes are insufficient as AI agents gain greater autonomy. Businesses need updated governance cycles covering an AI system’s full lifecycle, including guardrails, controls and measurement of its impact.

He said leaders should choose models around specific business needs rather than pursue autonomy itself. Companies allowing AI greater independence need appropriate governance and human review.

For Singapore CEOs, delivering measurable AI returns will increasingly depend on balancing greater automation with oversight of data, operational risks, and business outcomes.