Protiviti AI Pulse Survey 2026

Protiviti released its fifth AI Pulse Survey, titled 'The AI-People Conundrum: Learning to Lead, Not Lag,' based on responses from nearly 800 executives globally, over 80% from the C-suite. The survey reveals a divide between CHROs and other C-suite leaders regarding AI workforce readiness and value capture. Only 5% of CHROs expect at least half of HR work to be AI-enabled within three years, compared to higher expectations in other functions. CHROs are less confident in their organizations' job designs and learning capabilities being AI-ready. The survey suggests that while most executives expect AI to improve performance, HR leaders are more cautious about the workforce changes needed.