Artificial intelligence (AI) is accelerating the rise of Gen Z business leaders, influencing how organisations identify, develop and promote future leadership, according to research by International Workplace Group (IWG).IWG’s Z-Suite Report: How a New Generation is Evolving the Boardroom found that 82 per cent of senior leaders believe AI is fast-tracking the rise of younger leaders. In addition, 80 per cent said younger employees are reaching leadership positions earlier than previous generations, while 92 per cent said they would be likely to appoint a Gen Z candidate to a senior leadership role.The research found that 80 per cent of young leaders believe AI gives them knowledge they would previously have needed years of experience to gain. Another 79 per cent said AI tools help them perform tasks beyond their current seniority.India’s Gen Z embraces AIThe findings are particularly relevant to India, where younger professionals report high levels of leadership ambition and AI adoption. Deloitte’s 2026 Gen Z and Millennial Survey found that 96 per cent of Gen Z respondents in India are interested in pursuing senior leadership roles, compared with 76 per cent globally.Deloitte’s India findings also showed that 93 per cent of Gen Z respondents use AI in their day-to-day work, while 85 per cent are confident in applying AI in their roles.Microsoft’s 2026 Work Trend Index found that 32 per cent of Indian AI users use AI agents to redesign multi-step work, compared with 16 per cent globally. The report also found that 78 per cent of Indian respondents believe AI enables them to do work that was not possible a year earlier, compared with 58 per cent globally.AI supports faster progressionIWG’s research found that 95 per cent of respondents aged 21-29 believe they are likely to hold a senior leadership role by age 30. Further, 78 per cent said AI has increased their confidence in taking on leadership responsibilities, while 79 per cent said it helps them contribute more strategically. Some 86 per cent believe they are progressing faster than previous generations.Christian Schmitz, CEO, International Workplace Group, said, “The organisations that succeed over the coming years will be those that recognise leadership potential earlier and create environments where talented people can develop quickly. AI is accelerating capability, but businesses also need the right culture, opportunities and leadership to help people reach their full potential.”He added, “This isn’t simply about promoting younger leaders sooner. It is about giving people the tools, flexibility and support to make better decisions, adapt faster and create more value for customers.”According to Schmitz, the findings indicate that AI is influencing not only how businesses operate, but also how they identify, develop and promote the next generation of leaders.