Last fall, I found myself on Disney World’s Ratatouille ride, dodging oversized kitchen utensils with my kids and laughing at the whimsy of it all. Later that evening, as I reflected on the experience (and maybe overanalyzed it a bit—occupational hazard!), I realized something profound. There’s a big difference between being a cook and being a chef—and that difference is exactly what leaders need to embrace in the age of AI.
A cook follows the recipe. A chef creates it. A cook works with what’s in front of them. A chef imagines what’s possible and brings it to life. In today’s fast-evolving world of AI, leadership demands chef-level thinking: creativity, strategy, and a willingness to experiment and adapt.
This idea resonated deeply during a keynote I gave in Orlando to a group of professional service providers. As AI becomes an integral part of our organizations, here are the five ways leaders can step up as chefs and not just cooks.
1. Data Leader: Sourcing the Right Ingredients
AI thrives on data, but here’s the kicker: Not all data is created equal. As a leader, you need to understand how data affects AI outcomes. Is it biased? Incomplete? Flat-out wrong? These questions matter because bad data leads to bad AI, which leads to bad decisions. And guess who’s responsible for asking those tough questions? You.
Sometimes, getting the data right will take longer than the AI initiative itself. In fact, you might need to build data that doesn’t even exist yet. For example, I’ve seen companies create entirely new datasets to reflect underserved markets because the existing ones weren’t cutting it.
Looking ahead, leaders must also understand the two levels of data that AI depends on. The first is the base data, often provided by large foundational models like GPT-4 or Microsoft CoPilot. This is your starting point, a powerful general-purpose ingredient. But the real magic happens with the enhanced data you layer on top. This might include proprietary datasets unique to your business or custom information that tailors the AI to your specific needs. Both levels are critical—and it’s your job to ensure they’re top quality.
Chef Tip: Start with a data audit. Ask: Where does this data come from? Is it representative of the population or market we serve? What might be missing? When you’re confident in your ingredients, your AI recipe will turn out far better.
2. Strategy Leader: Crafting the Vision
AI is a tool, not a strategy. Let me say that louder for the folks in the back: AI is not the strategy. As a leader, your job is to define the big-picture vision for how AI will help your organization thrive. This isn’t just about keeping up with the Joneses of your industry; it’s about developing your organization’s AI maturity.
AI maturity starts with a team dabbling in tools (often randomly), then moves toward thoughtful, strategic adoption. The goal? A fully integrated approach that differentiates your business in the marketplace. But here’s the twist: You’ve got to communicate this vision in a way that’s compelling and inspiring. People need to see where you’re headed and want to join you.
Chef Tip: Map out your organization’s current AI maturity. Are you in the “haphazard experimentation” phase or moving toward strategic integration? Use AI to uncover trends and identify opportunities for differentiation, then rally the team around that vision.
3. Responsible Leader: Guarding the Kitchen
AI is powerful, but with great power comes great responsibility (yes, I’m quoting Spider-Man—stay with me). Leaders must ensure their organizations use AI ethically, transparently, and inclusively. This means asking the tough questions about how your AI systems work and making sure your policies are clear.
AI tools need explainability and fairness. If an AI system makes a decision, can you explain how it got there? Is it treating people equitably? These aren’t optional considerations—they’re table stakes for earning trust.
Chef Tip: Create an AI ethics playbook. Include guidelines for evaluating AI tools, questions to ask vendors, and policies for internal use. When everyone knows the rules of the kitchen, the result is better (and safer) for everyone.
4. Human Leader: Leading with Empathy
AI doesn’t think or feel—that’s your job. Change is hard, and for many people, AI feels intimidating (or downright scary). Your role as a leader is to bring the human element to the forefront. Show your team that AI isn’t here to replace them but to help them.
This means fostering open conversations about what AI can and can’t do, addressing fears, and highlighting how it can make their work more meaningful. Let AI handle the grunt work, so your team can focus on what truly matters—building relationships, driving innovation, and solving big-picture challenges.
Chef Tip: Schedule regular “AI and Us” chats with your team. These are informal opportunities to discuss new tools, share successes, and address concerns. Make it a safe space for curiosity and collaboration.
5. Evolving Leader: Staying Curious and Adaptable
If there’s one thing I’ve learned about AI, it’s that you’ll never be “done” learning. The tech moves fast, and staying static isn’t an option. Leaders need to get comfortable being uncomfortable—embracing change as a constant and staying curious about what’s next.
For example, 2024 may have been the breakout year for generative AI, but 2025 could see agentic AI take center stage. (Think tools that can not only generate but also act on information.) Leaders who stay informed can guide their teams through these shifts with confidence and purpose.
Chef Tip: Dedicate time each week to exploring AI trends and tools. Balance this with staying focused on long-term goals, so you’re not constantly chasing shiny new objects. Growth is about being intentional and adaptable.
Chef It Up!
To lead in the age of AI, you need to think like a chef: sourcing the right ingredients, crafting a vision, protecting your kitchen, leading with empathy, and staying adaptable. This isn’t about following someone else’s recipe—it’s about creating your own and inspiring others to join you in the process.
So, what’s your first step? Will you audit your data? Map your AI maturity? Or maybe it’s time to start that “AI and Us” conversation with your team. Whatever you choose, lean into it with curiosity and courage. The world of AI is waiting for leaders like you.
Ready to lead like a chef in the age of AI? Let’s connect! I’d love to bring this message to your next event or team meeting.
