Invisible work of AI falls disproportionately to middle managers, women

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-09-16 • Permanent link

Lurking beneath the surface of the rapidly evolving AI landscape, a concerning trend has emerged that highlights the invisible labor of middle managers in the face of increasingly automated processes. According to research conducted by the Notre Dame-IBM Tech Ethics Lab, women and middle managers are disproportionately shouldering the burden of managing AI-driven workloads, often without adequate recognition or compensation. The study found that these individuals are shouldering 40% of the workload, with women making up 60% of middle managers in the tech industry.

Ripples of this trend are being felt across various sectors, as investors and consumers begin to take notice of the implications for the broader economy. The lack of transparency and accountability in AI-driven decision-making processes has significant implications for investors, who are increasingly seeking to understand the risks and rewards associated with AI-driven investments. Moreover, the undervaluation of middle managers' work has far-reaching consequences for the overall productivity and competitiveness of organizations.

Historically, the relationship between technology and work has been marked by periods of significant disruption, as new innovations and processes have transformed the nature of employment. The rise of AI is no exception, and experts warn that the current trend towards automation could exacerbate existing inequalities and social tensions. The notion that AI is a neutral force, capable of improving productivity and efficiency, is being challenged by this research, which highlights the need for more nuanced and equitable approaches to AI development and deployment.

As the stakes continue to rise, stakeholders are beginning to take notice of the need for greater accountability and transparency in AI-driven decision-making processes. The upcoming launch of the OECD's AI Principles is expected to provide a framework for governments and organizations to develop more responsible and equitable AI strategies. Meanwhile, companies are being encouraged to prioritize diversity and inclusion initiatives, as a means of mitigating the negative impacts of AI-driven labor displacement and ensuring that the benefits of AI are shared more widely.