Management versus employees AI referees the match

The text explores the transformation of the relationship between management and employees in the era of technological innovation driven by artificial intelligence. Tracing the evolution from classical Taylorism to Digital Taylorism, it illustrates how automation and algorithmic systems are reshaping managerial functions and corporate structures. Through tools such as workforce analytics and algorithmic management, AI increasingly assumes decision-making roles, influencing accountability, workplace dynamics, and the protection of human and privacy rights. Empirical evidence from major corporations highlights both the benefits (efficiency gains, reduced costs, personalized training) and the challenges (loss of human touch, work intensification, algorithmic bias). The discussion then turns to the European regulatory framework – including the AI Act, GDPR, Corporate Sustainability due Diligence Directive, and Platform Work Directive – which seeks to balance technological progress with ethical governance. Ultimately, the study advocates for a new model of human-centred digital corporate responsibility, where sustainable leadership harmonizes innovation, fairness, and social in the age of Industry 4.0.