UK Companies Strengthen AI Oversight in Core Operations

64% of UK organisations surveyed assign AI accountability to the C-suite, per KPMG research.

UK Companies Enhance AI Governance

Research conducted by KPMG reveals that UK businesses are bolstering their oversight of artificial intelligence at the board level and strengthening security measures as the technology transitions from pilot projects to core operations.

A significant majority, 64 per cent, of UK organisations surveyed indicated that accountability for AI-informed decisions rests with the C-suite or higher. This surpasses the global average of 54 per cent. The finding comes from a survey of 2,131 senior leaders across 20 countries, including 100 in the UK.

KPMG’s Global AI Pulse research highlights a shift towards governing and measuring AI systems, not just successful deployment. The survey was conducted between late July and August. It found that 55 per cent of organisations worldwide have formal AI management infrastructure. Among companies with established ROI, the rate rises to 86 per cent, compared with 31 per cent for those still experimental.

Security concerns are driving this shift, with 80 per cent of UK respondents adapting their cybersecurity operations and strengthening policies as AI adoption grows. The UK government’s voluntary AI Cyber Security Code of Practice, which outlines 13 principles, aims to establish an international standard for AI security, covering areas such as human responsibility, infrastructure, and supply chains.

Companies are also prioritising the hosting of their AI models and data, with 69 per cent of UK respondents considering “model sovereignty” in their decision-making, and 24 per cent implementing organisation-wide strategies subject to regular review.

Financial oversight of AI investments appears less mature. Only 13 per cent of organisations consistently evaluate AI’s value against its cost. Nevertheless, 67 per cent review costs during project approval. And 58 per cent monitor costs during operation.

Paul Henninger, head of technology and data at KPMG UK, noted that deploying AI is “only the first step”. He emphasized the need for companies to establish robust leadership and governance structures. These structures must support the technology at scale.

The adoption of autonomous or semi-autonomous AI agents by employees is on the rise, with 35 per cent of UK organisations reporting significant uptake, up from 30 per cent in the first quarter. KPMG’s findings suggest that the competitive advantage is shifting from mere access to AI towards effective management of the technology.