

Algorithmic leadership refers to the transfer of decision-making and managerial tasks to automated systems, digital tools, or artificial intelligence. But what transpires in the workplace when machines begin to assume managerial functions? This question is highly relevant for both businesses and society at large.
At the EU level, the regulation of algorithmic management has emerged as a pivotal theme, and the governing framework is likely to undergo substantial revisions in the future. In Finland, it is essential to proactively address this development to ensure that companies can leverage the potential of AI transparently, sustainably, and fairly.
The RoboBoss project examines algorithmic management specifically within professional and knowledge-based sectors – domains where AI's role has hitherto received limited research attention and understanding. The project encompasses:
- A nationwide survey of employees and managers
- A Delphi futures panel for supervisors
- Company-specific research and development workshops These initiatives aim to ascertain AI's tangible impact on management practices and establish guidelines for responsible AI leadership.
Project findings will be disseminated through diverse channels: academic and scientific publications, expert articles, corporate AI narratives and case studies, a book, podcast and webinar series, alongside practical recommendations for businesses. These insights will address key questions such as:
- What are the benefits and risks of algorithmic leadership?
- How can businesses prepare for AI-driven leadership?
- In which situations can AI replace managerial decision-making – and when is it not advisable?
AI's role in management is no longer a distant prospect – it is already a present reality. The time has come to explore how it is transforming the workplace and determine our appropriate response to navigate this shift.
RoboBoss
Duration: 03/2025–09/2026
Project Manager: Anna Lahtinen
Partners: Abloy Oy, Foibekartano Oy, Jensen Hughes Oy, Kesko Oyj, Sympa Oy, Vetcare Oy, AI Think Group, Atea, Central Uusimaa Business Development Center (Keuke), City of Espoo, City of Vantaa, Eastern Uusimaa Business Development Center (Posintra), Finnish Association for Human Resource Management (HENRY), Finnish Association of Development Agencies (SEKES), Finnish Business Mentors (Suomen Yrityskummit), Finnish Information Society Development Centre (TIEKE), Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (Työterveyslaitos), Health Tech Finland (Terveysteknologia), NestorPartners, Professionals of Business and Technology (Tradenomiliitto), Sofigate, The Union of Professional Engineers in Finland (Insinööriliitto), Uusimaa Entrepreneurs (Uudenmaan Yrittäjät) and Western Uusimaa Chamber of Commerce.
Funding: The Finnish Work Environment Fund (Työsuojelurahasto), Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, Abloy Oy, Foibekartano Oy, Jensen Hughes Oy, Kesko Oyj, Sympa Oy, Vetcare Oy.
