“I think what a CEO does is maybe one of the easier things maybe for an AI to do one day,” he said. Although he didn’t talk specifically about CEO functions that an AI could do better, Pichai noted the tech will eliminate some jobs but also “evolve and transition” others—ramifications that mean “people will need to adapt.”

Pichai’s comments come as other tech CEOs have also predicted the coming of a new era of chief executive automations. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman previously said AI will someday do his job better than him, adding, “I will be nothing but enthusiastic the day that happens.” Sebastian Siemiatkowski, CEO of buy-now-pay-later firm Klarna, also said in a post on X earlier this year that “AI is capable of doing all our jobs, my own included.”

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[–] 121 points 11 months ago (13 children)

How is an AI chatbot going to eat a business lunch?

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  • [–] 23 points 11 months ago (6 children)
  • [–] 12 points 11 months ago (5 children)

    Isn't that just repeating what OP said?

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  • [–] 2 points 11 months ago (4 children)

    I sincerely apologize, but I did not notice any mentions of martinis. Can you help me spot where OP mentioned these specifically?

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  • [–] 4 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    They said “business lunch” which implies martinis already.

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  • [–] 1 point 11 months ago

    The three-martini lunch is no longer common practice for several reasons; these include the implementation of "fitness for duty" programs by numerous companies, the decreased tolerance of alcohol use,[4] a general decrease in available leisure time for business executives and an increase in the size of the martini

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  • [–] 3 points 11 months ago* (1 child)

    Yah, it was a joke (perhaps not a great one) and /s was implied. https://lemmy.world/u/Hawke has it correct - the martinis were fully implied by "business lunch" often known as a "liquid lunch". No apology necessary internet friend - it was strictly in jest and not being snarky to you or your comment.

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  • [–] 4 points 11 months ago (2 children)

    You’ve never fed bologna sandwiches to a paper shredder?

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  • [–] 31 points 11 months ago

    Something that consistently makes bad choices with little more than random probability? You don't say

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  • [–] 57 points 11 months ago (7 children)

    A computer can never be held accountable, so a computer should never hold a management position.

    Also, Sundar Pichai is a dick.

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  • [–] 69 points 11 months ago (4 children)

    Not being held accountable is the main tenant of modern CEOs

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  • [–] 16 points 11 months ago (2 children)

    Yea I’m not seeing any real difference. Something that plagurisng and takes credit for what others achieved and also isn’t held accountable for anything.

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  • [–] 6 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    Yeah, I see this as the real problem. Companies will use AI CEOs to take the blame when it makes bad decisions, whether it be to investors or in court. I hope we get to see an AI CEO testify in court.

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  • [–] 48 points 11 months ago (5 children)

    You don't even need AI. Just pay staff less and charge customers more, and give the stolen money to shareholders. Ta-da! That's the CEO's job done.

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  • [–] 8 points 11 months ago

    Because upper management is less checked, they make a lot of human choices, such as keeping a lot of bullshit job positions open as garden hermits (there for scenery, to look busy).

    AI tasked with actually increasing profits may run the business better than their human counterparts.

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    [–] 22 points 11 months ago

    Indeed, a LLM can certainly spout bullshit on social media.

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  • [+] 18 points 11 months ago (2 children)
  • [–] 62 points 11 months ago (4 children)

    I’m sure there are many jobs AI is not capable of doing but some CEOs probably do a bad enough job that an AI chat bot could probably do better.

    I know we like to dump on CEOs all the time but a good CEO does not seem like one that could be replaced by AI, certainly not by what is currently being hyped. There are just a lot of highly visible companies with CEOs who aren’t actually very good. I suspect the dysfunction of publicly traded companies and the goals of Wall Street investors (or other nations’ equivalents) frequently not aligning with a good long-term health of a company has a strong influence on this.

    And of course these guys will be happy to have AI replace them; they’ve already made boatloads of money and think they’ll be able to keep that going even if they lose their job.

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  • [–] 28 points 11 months ago (2 children)

    Being a good CEO is 95% about social networking; creating and maintaining trustworthy relationships with others who will provide you with good support. AI can't do this, as it's a truly human thing.

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  • [–] 4 points 11 months ago

    Why would you assume that the AI who takes the CEO job will be a LLM or "chat bot"?

    It might use a LLM to communicate the ideas, but probably not for large scale business strategi.

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  • [–] 15 points 11 months ago

    AI could replace billionaires.

    AI is uncaring and unfeeling, so wouldn't care if it was taxed appropriately.

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  • [–] 14 points 11 months ago

    Hate to add to this.

    He's saying it to heat up the topic.

    These people liked the heaps of cheap good hardware after the dotcom crash, so now they want cheap good hardware, specialized.

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  • [–] 13 points 11 months ago

    You first, shithead

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  • [–] 13 points 11 months ago (3 children)

    I'm no fan of CEOs but I don't really want AI in charge of stuff either

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  • [–] 4 points 11 months ago (2 children)

    They are both psychopaths, you'd be hard pressed to find a difference.

    They both see workers as a numbers and expendable.

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  • [–] 13 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    That’s more an indictment of how we believe human society should be run than an endorsement of AI tbh

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  • [–] 11 points 11 months ago

    When chatgpt first came out and my CEO scrubbed my entire devision while giving zero bonuses yet having the most profitable year I wrote a prompt for a speech and it was practically verbatim. There's zero need for a CEO aside from maybe needing a fall guy with a golden parachute.

    Subject: Q2 2023 Quarterly Update: Record-breaking Profits, Strategic Realignments, and Compensation Adjustments

    Dear esteemed stakeholders,

    I am thrilled to present to you the second-quarter update, brimming with noteworthy achievements and strategic developments that have significantly impacted our organization's performance. Despite operating in a dynamic and highly competitive landscape, we have delivered outstanding financial results that surpass any previous decade's records. I am excited to share these details and provide insight into the exceptional growth we have experienced in recent months.

    Financial Highlights:

    In Q2 2023, we witnessed a meteoric rise in our profitability, with net earnings reaching unprecedented heights, outperforming any comparable period over the past ten years. The diligent efforts of our teams, coupled with robust market conditions, synergistic acquisitions, and optimized cost structures, have paved the way for this remarkable achievement.

    (Prompt outcome, probably could be more jargon heavy with chatgpt5!)

    Strategic Realignment:

    Our success can be primarily attributed to our relentless pursuit of strategic realignment initiatives across multiple fronts. By strategically refocusing our core business lines and leveraging our distinctive competencies, we have effectively capitalized on emerging market trends while fortifying our position as an industry leader.

    Our investments in cutting-edge technology and digital transformation initiatives have empowered us to unlock new opportunities and drive operational efficiency. The implementation of data-driven analytics has yielded insightful decision-making capabilities, enabling us to optimize resource allocation and enhance overall productivity.

    Product Portfolio Optimization:

    Our product portfolio underwent a comprehensive review during Q2, resulting in strategic pruning and refocusing efforts. By prioritizing high-growth areas with maximum revenue potential and aligning our offerings with evolving customer needs, we have ensured a sharper competitive edge and amplified market penetration. This proactive approach has allowed us to streamline our operations while effectively positioning ourselves as a provider of innovative solutions.

    Employee Recognition and Compensation Adjustments:

    Regrettably, amidst these commendable financial achievements, it is imperative that we address a necessary adjustment to our compensation policies. While profits have soared, we have made the difficult decision not to award annual bonuses to our employees this year. This choice was made to safeguard the long-term sustainability and growth of our organization, considering the dynamic market conditions and the need for prudent financial management.

    It is important to emphasize that this decision was not taken lightly, and we remain deeply committed to the well-being and development of our employees. Alternative avenues, such as performance-based incentives and recognition programs, will be explored to ensure ongoing motivation and engagement within our workforce. We firmly believe that nurturing a conducive work environment, coupled with career advancement opportunities, will continue to foster a culture of excellence and drive collective success.

    Looking Forward:

    Moving forward, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to driving sustainable growth, capitalizing on emerging market opportunities, and nurturing a resilient organizational culture. Our strategic initiatives will continue to prioritize innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centricity, ensuring our ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing business landscape.

    I extend my deepest gratitude to each member of our organization, whose unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence have contributed to our resounding success. Together, we will navigate the evolving market dynamics and deliver sustainable value to our stakeholders.

    Thank you for your continued support.

    Sincerely,

    [Your Name] CEO, [Company Name]

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  • [–] 11 points 11 months ago (3 children)

    Of course.

    If you have CEOs who manage multiple companies, it means being CEO is never a full time job.

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  • [–] -1 points 11 months ago (2 children)

    If we need to make good arguments against CEOs, at least try a little.

    Wouldnt it be possible that "CEO" is different things in different companies?

    Would it be possible that CEOs have people employed to take some of their tasks? Some CEOs, all their tasks?

    Is a CEOs job the same when theres 50 people under him/her or 5000? Which do you think could run itself the best?

    I also want the CEO job to be handle by someone who actually has a function, and is a good leader with morale and empathy.

    But just saying "muuuh CEO bad because!!" is killing the discussion.

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  • [–] 5 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    Would it be possible that CEOs have people employed to take some of their tasks? Some CEOs, all their tasks?

    Is a CEOs job the same when theres 50 people under him/her or 5000? Which do you think could run itself the best?

    If other people are doing your work for you then it sounds like you're not working full time.

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  • [–] 1 point 11 months ago

    Exactly my point, which means you missed it.

    The things you quoted pointed to the things making CEOs less important, while other points the opposite.

    So just to be very clear about my point: CEOs are very different jobs. Some can be cut, some cant, because CEO doesnt really mean anything other than "person in charge".

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  • [–] 11 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    I'm waiting for the day when a major company has their AI CEO absolutely tank the company.

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  • [–] 10 points 11 months ago (4 children)

    Then who will be held responsible for its decisions?

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  • [–] 3 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    take responsibility in what sense? CEOs are not responsible in no other sense than to the stockholders and/or the board of directors and to the law. If they don't break the law then the only responsibility they can take is resigning or being sacked. Failing in usually by not maximizing profits if it's a for profit corporation. It really is a perfect job for a machine because the job really just requires following a preset directives to a letter even to the point of psychopathy.

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  • [–] 19 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    The job of a tech CEO:

    • Chase trends
    • Mass layoffs in time to make the quarterly reports look better
    • FOMO
    • ???
    • Profit!
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  • [–] 9 points 11 months ago (3 children)

    if it's so easy an ai could replace it than why are ceos the highest paid position in the company?

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  • [–] 12 points 11 months ago*

    Because job difficulty and job pay aren't correlated under capitalism.

    The easiest job is to own assets. Not manage assets. Own them. Which is to say get your name on a title of a sufficiently large asset, and the money just rolls in while you sleep in bed. You sleep, your asset works. For a large enough asset this also provides the largest pay.

    Owners need lieutenants to look after their assets. That's what a CEO is.

    So why are CEOs so highly paid? Because if you do not, they will embezzle (steal) money from your asset since they control every aspect of your asset's daily functioning! So you need to cut the CEO in on the grift of being a big asset owner.

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  • [–] 9 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    Never thought I'd hear honesty out of a C-Suiter

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  • [–] 9 points 11 months ago

    So... that means they'll all step down and stop getting paid millions per year, right?

    Right?

    Guys? Right?

    No?

    ...

    😐

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  • [–] 9 points 11 months ago

    Of course he's cool with AI taking his job, he's got a golden parachute for early retirement

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  • [–] 17 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    Let's run the job requirements list:

    • amoral
    • talks a lot about things they don't understand
    • comfortable with lying if it benefits their goals
    • emotionless psychpathic traits
    • uses enormous amount of resources for questinable gains
    • good at manipulation
    • bad at maths
    • occasional racist outbursts on social media

    Yeah all seems to check out. Replace the CEOs, AI can't do worse.

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  • [–] 8 points 11 months ago

    The more I hear people talking about AI, the more I believe people don't know what they are talking about, mostly

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  • [–] 7 points 11 months ago

    Quick we need an answer from our CEO ASAP! Sorry currently AWS and Cloudflare are down so were SOL.

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  • [–] 7 points 11 months ago

    Is this an attempt to be "relatable" for the slaves employees?

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  • [–] 6 points 11 months ago
    [–] 6 points 11 months ago (3 children)

    oh boy, another article about CEOs saying what “AI” could maybe do in the future. i’ll put this one in the pile with all the others

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  • [–] 5 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    No this one makes sense though. AI is great at being critically misinformed and making terrible decisions. Of all the things they claim AI can do, I think this one is the closest.

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  • [–] 6 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    If AI was truly worth anything then these tech ghouls wouldn't have to constantly hype it so much with click bait sound bites, and trying to shove AI features everywhere, even when it does not make much sense. These scum just want an excuse to keep laying off people to keep the bubble going so they can profitably exit while others are left holding the bag.

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  • [–] 6 points 11 months ago

    So I've already commented on this post, but I've had another thought: imagine if your CEO sent you an email saying "we need to do X". You respond with "no, X causes this issue, we need to do Y" and your CEO responds with "You're absolutely right! Here's how we will implement this new policy"

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  • [–] 10 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    CEO’s job is to make business connections and get funding or contracts and stuff. People skills. LLM is really good at manipulation… If you give LLM a physical body, I would say it’s not that far-fetched…

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  • [–] 5 points 11 months ago

    So, rehashing old ideas as if they were new, making decent products worse but charging more, lacking expertise and in-depth knowledge, using layoffs instead of good financial planning?

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  • [–] 5 points 11 months ago

    Yes, it can. Research even indicates it can. He isn't saying anything actually novel.

    Research in question: https://hbr.org/2024/09/ai-can-mostly-outperform-human-ceos

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  • [–] 8 points 11 months ago

    Trash tier "article".

    You might as well go for the original BBC interview, while looks to be only in audio for now.

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  • [–] 4 points 11 months ago*

    AI guy wants his AI to run companies. Somehow, this is good for business and not a hostile control takeover by proxy.

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  • [–] 4 points 11 months ago

    I would love to see a study where they ask a 2024 AI for business decisions around things that happened in 2025. How much you want to bet it already can?

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  • [–] 4 points 11 months ago (3 children)

    So, he practically says that being a CEO is trivial and mechanical.

    How does that justify the insane pay then?

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  • [–] 0 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    Because they are the fall guy when the company does something illegal (like most of them do all the time) and get caught.

    The real perps (shareholders) get away scot-free by claiming they didn't know it was happening.

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  • [–] 3 points 11 months ago

    The board and directors, not shareholders. Most companies have non-voting shareholders. Unless it's Blackrock or their ilk, because they have significant influence even without voting rights.

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  • [–] 3 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    In a better timeline, if that becomes true, then bring on the UBI.

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  • [–] 3 points 11 months ago*

    I agree AI could easily take on the role of the biggest dork in the company, which is largely what the CEO is.

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  • [–] 3 points 11 months ago

    It’s maybe the only job it should actually replace.

    I still wouldn’t trust the current models with it. But tbh even the current models couldn’t be any worse than the current humans in the roles.

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  • [–] 3 points 11 months ago

    Oh how the turns have tabled.

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  • [–] 3 points 11 months ago

    My quotes file for email signatures could replace most modern CEOs. The major qualifications are a cool name and being over six feet tall.

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  • [–] 2 points 11 months ago

    Ffs just stop talking, dude.

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  • Pichai’s comments come as other tech CEOs have also predicted the coming of a new era of chief executive automations. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman previously said AI will someday do his job better than him, adding, “I will be nothing but enthusiastic the day that happens.” Sebastian Siemiatkowski, CEO of buy-now-pay-later firm Klarna, also said in a post on X earlier this year that “AI is capable of doing all our jobs, my own included.”

    Yeah, I'm not surprised the wealthy person who owns the output of the AI tools and company is enthusiastic about his job being "replaced," since - as the owner and therefore spout of the AI value funnel - he now has to work even less to extract the value of hundreds or thousands of human lives.

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