Woman’s Empowerment Through Digital Leadership: Exploring How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Powered Tools Can Improve Managerial Decision-Making in Public Sectors of Pakistan

Abstract

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies is transforming leadership practices and organizational decision-making processes. In this context, digital leadership has emerged as a critical capability that enables organizations to effectively integrate advanced technologies while promoting inclusive leadership environments. This study examines the role of digital leadership and artificial intelligence adoption in enhancing women’s empowerment and managerial decision-making in organizational contexts in Pakistan. A mixed-method research design was employed, combining quantitative survey data with qualitative insights to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research problem. Primary data were collected from 273 women professionals through a structured questionnaire using purposive sampling. The proposed research model was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that digital leadership significantly influences women’s empowerment, artificial intelligence adoption, and managerial decision-making. Furthermore, both women’s empowerment and AI adoption positively affect managerial decision-making, while AI adoption mediates the relationship between digital leadership and decision-making effectiveness. The findings highlight the importance of developing digital leadership capabilities and promoting access to AI technologies to empower women leaders and improve organizational decision-making processes. The study contributes to literature on digital leadership, technology adoption, and gender empowerment while offering practical insights for organizations seeking to promote inclusive and technology-driven leadership environments.