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Human leadership remains essential as AI agents reshape work

Published: 16 June 2026

As companies experiment with agentic AI, some are using technology not just to support employees, but to stand in for managers. While AI agents may streamline workflows, organizations risk weakening the human connections that build loyalty and trust, according to Simon Blanchette, a faculty lecturer at 91˿Ƶ Desautels Faculty of Management.

Blanchette says the ClickUp model, where thousands of internal AI agents support employee workflows, raises questions about belonging. “If you don't have human connections — working with colleagues, mentoring, relationships — what are you becoming loyal to?” he said. For Blanchette, the balance is clear: “Leaders really need to still be leading in that change, to support employees, create trust, and actually hear concerns.” 

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