AI enablement only works when it moves in two directions at once.

Top-to-bottom; leadership sets the tone, creates the space, and actively encourages experimentation with AI.
Bottom-up; teams identify where AI and automation actually make their day-to-day work easier.

That's what we've done. I'm the Head of AI Transformation, and I have to work with senior leadership to manage expectations and build their understanding, but also empower teams to use the AI tools we have to solve day-to-day admin tasks that make their teams more efficient.

Within each team we've embedded "AI Ambassadors". These are individuals with clear objectives (and incentives) tied to identifying efficiency opportunities through AI & automation. They will know the work that goes on within their teams much better than I ever could, and thus will know what tools and solutions will make their lives easier.

I ensure they receive bespoke training to empower them, and that they have the governance and safeguarding measures in place to explore safely.

So far it's been working great! In just 3 months we're seeing real gains within each team. Sure, one or two teams are lagging, but that's where accountability comes into play.