What Role Do Middle Managers Play in an AI-Driven Workplace?

How can organizations rethink middle manager roles in an AI-driven workplace? In this episode of Work Week, Dr. Gabby Burlacu of The Upwork Research Institute examines the changing role of middle managers in an AI-powered workplace. We highlight findings from The Upwork Research Institute’s latest report, From Tools to Teammates: Navigating the Human-AI Relationship, as well as relevant industry research from Gallup, Gartner, and Capgemini. We uncover why middle managers feel disengaged—and why their role is more important than ever as organizations integrate AI. Learn how freelancers are modeling sustainable AI use, why reimagining—not eliminating—middle management is critical, and how to support middle managers amid the AI transformation.