The pace of change in work is accelerating – the skills needed for work are expected to change by 70% in 2030, according to the World Economic Forum, with the massive shift accelerated by AI. However, the skills gap is slowing AI adoption and threatening to leave organisations further behind. Despite its potential to drive innovation, efficiency, and competitive advantage, AI is being underutilised across industries, with skills serving as a major barrier – costing opportunity and productivity. As AI continues to upend industries, investing people and their skills will safeguard organisations in this evolving world of work, ensuring business longevity. It is important to note that AI innovation is not an undertaking by a single department — it takes an entire organisation to propel true transformation. Hence, companies should treat innovation as a strategic business investment, going beyond conventional job descriptions and investing in AI upskilling across all areas.