Darren Hardman, the newly appointed CEO of Microsoft UK, is optimistic about the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the nation’s economy and businesses. Speaking at Microsoft’s AI Tour in London, Hardman outlined the significant potential of AI, stating that it can lead to “sweeping changes” across various sectors.
Hardman emphasized that AI’s impact can be seen in various fields, “from lifesaving healthcare innovations to sustainable technologies that focus on enhancing social, economic and environmental impacts.” He highlighted the opportunity for the UK to strengthen its position as a global leader in the AI sector.
He drew a parallel to historical shifts, noting, “Like the industrial revolution of the 19th century, our 21st century AI revolution represents the opportunity to bring sweeping changes to the global economy.” Hardman also noted the benefits AI offers to businesses. “For businesses, it’s about innovating faster, optimizing processes, and having greater control about how we work, cutting the digital drudgery, removing the mundane, and doing more of the work that we love,” he added, “supercharging efficiency, enhancing services, and unlocking better outcomes for citizens.”
His remarks coincided with the release of new Microsoft research indicating that business leaders are optimistic about AI and are keen to integrate AI technologies across their operations. The study revealed that almost three-quarters (72%) of leaders expect AI agents to be fully integrated soon, with 21% expecting this within the next year, and 39% within two years.
However, the report also highlighted a potential “AI Divide” between businesses ready to adopt AI and those lagging. More than half (54%) of the business leaders admitted their organizations lack a formal AI strategy, and fewer than half (45%) believe their firms fully understand the AI skills needed in their workforce.
Hardman projected a substantial economic opportunity, foreseeing a half-trillion pound boost for the UK economy from AI and cloud technologies in the next decade. “There is a clear and urgent demand for AI in its many forms from developers to decision-makers across government, education and business,” he concluded. “But more than that, economic growth depends on it.”
