This research brief from Capgemini Research Institute examines the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in organizations, emphasizing its significance as a strategic imperative for long-term growth. The report is designed for senior leaders responsible for shaping their organization’s AI agenda and focuses on readiness, scaling strategies, and long-term value creation. It documents insights from a global survey of 1,505 senior leaders, highlighting the shift from pilot projects to sustained AI impact. Organizations are increasingly committing to multi-year investments in AI, recognizing the need to balance immediate returns with long-term capabilities. The brief outlines key enablers for successful AI adoption, including executive sponsorship, external partnerships, and workforce upskilling. It also discusses the importance of human-AI collaboration and the evolving metrics for measuring AI success beyond traditional ROI. The findings aim to provide practical guidance for leaders to navigate the complexities of AI integration and drive enterprise-wide value.