Tech CEOs use AI doubles and flatter org charts to extend control

In short: Some tech CEOs are using AI to act like they can manage more people at once, either through AI “stand-ins” or by reducing managers.

What's going on

A report from the Financial Times says Meta is working on a realistic 3D AI avatar of CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The idea is that Meta employees could video chat with this avatar, which would answer questions and give feedback as if it were Zuckerberg. The report says it is trained on his public comments, mannerisms, and current views on company strategy.

Meta has not publicly confirmed the project, according to Wired. Still, the concept fits a growing pattern among tech leaders. Last year, the CEOs of Klarna and Zoom used AI versions of themselves to deliver part of their remarks on earnings calls, which are regular updates to investors.

A different approach is coming from Block CEO Jack Dorsey. In a recent podcast interview, Dorsey said he wants to reduce the number of management layers between him and the rest of the company. He suggested AI could make it possible for far more employees to “report” to him directly, because much of the work would go through an “intelligence layer” (think of it like a central help desk that sorts questions and work).

What to watch

If more companies try these ideas, employees may see faster access to answers, but also closer oversight from the top. It also raises practical questions, like how accurate a CEO avatar can be and who is responsible when an AI stand-in gives bad guidance. Watch for whether companies set clear rules about what these tools can do, and how worker feedback is handled.

Source: Wired