AI Demystified: AI for Managers



Overview

This course is the second in the three-part AI Demystified series and is designed for managers and leaders who want to understand how artificial intelligence is reshaping organisations, roles and decision making, without requiring a technical background. 

You will explore how AI and machine learning are used in business settings, what their adoption means for organisational roles, processes, strategy and capability, and the practical judgements managers must make as AI becomes embedded in everyday operations. It also considers the implications of AI for employment, skills and workforce planning, and the leadership decisions required to manage change responsibly. You will also explore ways to adapt operational processes, identify effective uses of AI tools and recognise common pitfalls and ethical concerns. Drawing on real world practice, the course offers insight into how AI systems are developed and deployed, enabling more constructive dialogue between managers, technical specialists and external providers. 

Delivered as part of a three-course series running on consecutive days, the programme offers flexibility to attend a single course or follow the full pathway. While the first course establishes foundational understanding, this second course focuses on organisational impact and managerial response, helping you translate AI concepts into practical leadership and strategic decisions. 

By the end of the course, you will be better placed to: 

  • Assess the organisational opportunities and risks associated with AI adoption 
  • Develop a personal and organisational response to AI-driven change 
  • Understand the implications of AI for jobs, skills and ways of working 
  • Make informed decisions about where and how AI tools may add value 
  • Contribute confidently to strategic discussions about AI within your organisation

This is the second of three linked courses in the well-established ‘AI Demystified’ series. The three courses are: 

  1. Understanding AI: what is AI / machine learning (ML) and what can it do? 
  2. AI for Managers: the impact on your organisation and how to respond 
  3. Getting Started with AI and Machine Learning Development: starting hands-on creation of AI and machine learning 

Programme details

This course focuses on the managerial and organisational choices involved in adopting artificial intelligence and machine learning. It explores how managers evaluate where AI adds value, align technology with roles and processes, and respond to the organisational, workforce and ethical implications of AI adoption. The course covers the following topics: 

  • Developing AI-informed strategy and organisational response 
  • The 4-layer business response model, including strategy, operational processes, corporate knowledge and skills, and innovation 
  • Assessing opportunities and risks associated with AI adoption 
  • The implications of AI for work, jobs and skills 
  • Matching AI capabilities to workplace roles, tasks and business problems 
  • Building organisational capability for AI, including the Sent-Ai-Ance model 
  • Understanding AI as an organisational change and leadership challenge 
  • Managing competitive, reputational and ethical risks, including responsible use of AI 

Attending Your Course 

Further details will be emailed to you two weeks ahead of your course, this will include registration information and an overview of the course timetable.

If you have not received your joining instructions five working days before the course start date, please get in touch. 

In the meantime, you may wish to plan your travel: Travel information

Certification

In order to be eligible for a certificate of attendance, you will need to attend the whole course. Participants who meet this criterion will be emailed after the end of the course with a link, and instructions on how to access their University of Oxford digital certificate. 

The certificate will show your name, the course title and the dates of the course you attended. You will be able to download your certificate, as well as share it on social media if you choose to do so. 

Fees

Description Costs
1. Course Fee £685.00
2. Discount fee package: 1 - 3 June 2026 £1835.00

Payment

This course can be taken separately or as a discount fee package including AI Demystified: Understanding AI (1 June) and AI Demystified: Getting Started with AI and Machine Learning Development (3 June), saving £220.

Fees include course materials, tuition, refreshments and lunch. The price does not include accommodation.

All courses are VAT exempt.

Register immediately online 

Click the 'Book now' button on this webpage. Payment by credit or debit card is required.

Request an invoice

If you require an invoice for your company or organisation, please email us to request an online application form. Payment is then accepted online, by credit/debit card, or by bank transfer.

Tutor

Dr Rob Collins

Visiting Fellow

Department of Computer Science, University of Oxford

Dr Rob Collins is a visiting fellow of Kellogg College, Oxford and regularly teaches courses at the University. Dr Collins has taught on the MSc in Software Engineering through Oxford University’s Computing Laboratory for over 20 years. He currently teaches modules on Classical Machine Learning, Software Testing and Safety Critical Systems.

Dr Collins also teaches courses in Artificial Intelligence, Systems Thinking, Agile, Machine Learning, Design Thinking and Business Process Improvement. He regularly provides consultancy to industry in the area of Business Process Excellence, Artificial Intelligence and Systems Engineering. He gained his Black Belt Certification in Lean Six Sigma from Lockheed Martin, the world's largest Systems Engineering company and a world-leader in advanced technology.

As well as his undergraduate degree in Physics and Computing, Dr Collins holds a PhD focussed on training, psychology and processes for introducing complex technology into learning environments. He completed an MBA in 2012 at Henley Business School, and so has a strategic business view as well as deep understanding and practical experience of hands-on process improvement in technology and service.

Application

If you would like to discuss your application or any part of the application process before applying, please click 'Ask a Question' at the top of this page. 

Level and demands

This course is aimed at a general, non-technical audience. No specific knowledge of software, IT, computer technology or mathematics is required. 

It will be helpful, but not essential, to have attended Day 1 of this three-day programme, Understanding AI. 

Accommodation

Although not included in the course fee, accommodation may be available at our on-site Rewley House Residential Centre. All bedrooms are en suite and decorated to a high standard, and come with tea- and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi access and Freeview TV. Guests can take advantage of the excellent dining facilities and common room bar, where they may relax and network with others on the programme.

To check prices, availability and to book rooms please visit the Rewley House Residential Centre website. 

Enrolled students are entitled to discounted accommodation rates for the purpose of study, at Rewley House, and can contact the administration team for the promotional code to use for making online accommodation bookings via the website.

IT requirements

This course has no IT requirements.

You are welcome to bring laptop computers. 

Please note that there are IT requirements for the third course in this programme, Getting Started with AI and Machine Learning Development.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support