A new survey by global staffing firm Adecco reveals that while artificial intelligence (AI) is gaining traction among Spanish companies, significant gaps remain in skills and strategic alignment.
More than half (55%) of Spanish business leaders say AI has improved decision-making at the management level. However, the findings highlight significant challenges that could hinder the technology’s long-term influence.
Conducted among 2,000 C-suite leaders across 13 countries, the survey includes insights from 150 Spanish executives, offering a snapshot of how businesses in Spain adapt to the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Among their respondents, 59% said their teams struggled to agree on strategies quickly, highlighting the problems businesses face as they adapt to AI.
AI gains momentum, but strategy misalignment persists
Spanish companies remain optimistic about AI’s potential but struggle with execution. Although many see the technology as a tool for better decision-making, 59% of executives admit they struggle to align on timely business strategies, making Spain one of the most fragmented markets in the study.
A key reason might be policy gaps. About 37% of firms lack a formal AI policy, leading to inconsistent use and management of tools. As AI moves from pilot stages to core operations, the absence of clear frameworks might limit long-term value and organizational cohesion.
“AI will not replace people but will consolidate itself as a key ally to enhance human capacities and adapt equipment to a new, more digital, agile, and efficient working model,” said Alberto Gavilán, Aldecco’s talent director.
Skills shortage threatens digital transformation
While companies eagerly adopt AI, they struggle to find the talent to support it. Almost half (49%) of Spanish leaders cite a lack of AI expertise as the biggest hurdle to digital transformation in 2025. This concern echoes global trends, as highlighted in a separate Harvey Nash report that positions the tech as the world’s most in-demand tech skill.
Though 66% of Spanish leaders believe employees should adapt their skills to meet AI demands, only 67% of companies offer formal training. Even fewer (27%) invest in data-driven workforce planning to support future talent needs.
The Adecco report calls for a people-centered AI transformation, urging firms to bridge the divide between technology and talent. This includes reskilling programs, leadership development, and more inclusive digital strategies that empower workers to grow alongside AI.
Spain’s business leaders see the potential of AI but realize that it will require more than investment in tools. It demands a coordinated approach that places people at the center of digital transformation. Spanish firms risk falling behind in an increasingly AI-driven economy without addressing strategic gaps and skill shortages.
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Once, L. (2025, May 24). Spanish firms embrace AI, face skills and strategy gaps: Adecco survey. Outsource Accelerator. Retrieved from https://news.outsourceaccelerator.com/spanish-firms-embrace-ai-adecco-survey/
Europa Press. (2025, May 20). El 55% de los líderes españoles cree que el uso de IA por parte de la dirección mejora la toma de decisiones. europapress.es. Retrieved from https://www.europapress.es/economia/noticia-55-lideres-espanoles-cree-uso-ia-parte-direccion-mejora-toma-decisiones-20250520124851.html
