The Rise of the Super Manager + Executive Resilience for 2026

AI isn’t just accelerating work—it’s reshaping leadership. In this episode of ExecutiveEDGE, Jess Mann speaks with AI futurist Lucas Root, PhD about the rise of the “Super Manager” and why executives must evolve from decision-makers to systems architects in an AI-powered world. We also share practical resilience strategies to help leaders start 2026 strong, avoid burnout, and protect their energy, focus, and performance in a high-pressure environment.
Jan. 16, 2026
2 min read

In this episode of ExecutiveEDGE, we explore how AI is reshaping not only executive workflows—but the very definition of leadership. As decision cycles shrink and insights become instant, a new leadership archetype is emerging: the Super Manager.

We also share resilience strategies for leaders starting 2026 under pressure, offering practical ways to reduce burnout, improve energy management, and sustain high performance in a year marked by rapid technological change and ongoing uncertainty.

The Rise of the Super Manager: Redefining Leadership in the AI Era
As AI automates more decision support and operational work, executives are being pushed beyond traditional leadership models. In a conversation with AI futurist Lucas Root, PhD, this article explains how leadership is shifting from “decision-maker in chief” to systems architect—designing the structure, information flow, and incentives that allow humans and AI to collaborate at speed and scale.

Building Resilience: How Leaders Can Overcome Burnout and Achieve Goals in 2026
Goal-oriented leaders often start the year strong—but burnout and exhaustion can quickly pull teams back into old patterns. This article features insights from Prudence Hatchett, leadership resilience strategist and mental wellness specialist, on how executives can protect their energy, focus, and mindset in a demanding year.

Why It Matters
Together, these articles highlight what executive leadership requires in 2026:
more adaptability, more self-awareness, and more intentional design.
AI is changing how decisions get made. Resilience determines whether leaders can sustain the pace. The executives who thrive won’t just adopt AI—they’ll redesign how leadership works and protect the human energy required to lead.

Contributors:

About the Author

Jess Mand

Jess Mand

Contributor

Jess Mand is an award-winning communications strategist and founder of INDEMAND Communications, where she helps organizations translate complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives that drive connection and action. She partners with Fortune 500 companies, growth-stage firms, and mission-driven organizations to design communication strategies, content programs, and experiential campaigns that engage employees and elevate leadership messages. Known for her creative storytelling and pragmatic approach, Jess brings a rare blend of strategic insight and human-centered perspective to every project she leads.

Andrea Zelinski

Andrea Zelinski

Contributor

Andrea Zelinski is an award-winning freelance journalist with a passion for translating complex issues, trends and strategies into clear, engaging content to help people improve their businesses and their lives. 

She spent 15 years as a political reporter covering state governments in Illinois, Tennessee and Texas, reporting from the halls of state capitols for publications including Texas Monthly, the Houston Chronicle and the San Antonio Express-News. In 2021, she shifted her focus to business journalism, joining Travel Weekly as senior cruise editor, where she covered the travel industry’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

When not reporting, Andrea is probably hiking. Known for embracing ambitious challenges, she hiked the entire Appalachian Trail in 2020 and the Pacific Crest Trail in 2025. 

Quiz

Contributors:
mktg-icon Your Competitive Edge, Delivered

Make smart decisions faster with ExecutiveEDGE’s weekly newsletter. It delivers leadership insights, economic trends, and forward-thinking strategies. Gain perspectives from today’s top business minds and stay informed on innovations shaping tomorrow’s business landscape.

marketing-image