How to Go from AI Power User to AI Leader

Nufar and AI Daily Brief host Nathaniel Whittemore argue that a well-run AI champions network is one of the highest-ROI ways to improve enterprise AI adoption. They outline how CIOs should define the role, choose the right people, sponsor and train them, and keep the network alive so AI use cases turn into business value.

Key points

• AI champions are the highest-ROI way to spread practical AI adoption inside teams.
• The role ranges from ambassador to internal FDE; define scope before assigning work.
• Choose people with AI skill, business context, influence, and enough bandwidth—not just seniority or reward value.
• Train champions on their own use cases, then test them by delivering a real team example.
• Successful networks need two sponsors, regular routines, manager alignment, and continuous ownership after certification.
• Champions should evaluate ROI, pick the simplest workable solution, and define guardrails before building.