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IBM Study: Profit-Driven CMOs See AI as Growth Driver, but Operational Hurdles Slow Them Down
IBMIBM(US:IBM) Prnewswire·2025-06-17 04:10

Core Insights - A global study by IBM reveals that while 81% of CMOs recognize AI's strategic importance, 84% face challenges due to fragmented operations [2][3] - The study indicates a significant execution gap in translating AI strategies into tangible outcomes, with 54% of respondents underestimating operational complexity [2][7] Group 1: AI Integration and Challenges - 65% of CMOs agree that AI-literate talent is essential for achieving high-priority objectives, yet only 21% believe they possess the necessary talent for the next two years [8] - 69% of surveyed CMOs acknowledge that new privacy regulations will necessitate a reevaluation of their data strategy [8] - Only 22% of organizations have established clear guidelines for AI in automated decision-making, indicating a need for improved frameworks [7][8] Group 2: Operational Efficiency and Collaboration - 64% of CMOs are now responsible for profitability, while 58% are accountable for revenue growth, highlighting the need for better technology integration [3][7] - Respondents facing internal collaboration challenges reported a 12% revenue growth in 2024, compared to 13% for higher-performing peers, suggesting a potential $140 million upside for an average $14 billion revenue base [3] - Just under a quarter (24%) of respondents have technology platforms that support consistent cross-functional collaboration, and only 44% have integrated systems for demand planning and fulfillment [8] Group 3: Cultural and Operational Shifts - Only 23% of CMOs feel employees are prepared for the cultural and operational shifts brought by AI, with 67% viewing reshaping culture as their responsibility [3] - 62% of respondents report that the pace of change creates tensions between demand and operations functions, indicating a need for better alignment [8] - The study suggests that fully aligning marketing, sales, and operations could unlock a 20% increase in organizational revenue [8]