This study aims to investigate the role of technological core executives in driving industrial artificial intelligence (AI) transformation within Chinese manufacturing enterprises, delve into the synergistic mechanisms of parent–subsidiary executive connections and further analyze the value creation effects of this transformation process on manufacturing enterprises.
This study focuses on manufacturing-listed enterprises in China’s A-share market from 2010 to 2022. By integrating multidimensional data streams and developing a structured indicator system for industrial AI transformation, a data set comprising 4,970 valid observations was derived from 710 unique companies. The analysis leverages logistic regression and ordinary least squares regression methodologies to empirically assess the relationships between key variables.
Technological core executives significantly expedite industrial AI transformation, especially in firms with strong parent–subsidiary executive connections, and when subsidiaries possess relatively abundant available resources. Furthermore, industrial AI transformation enhances supply chain efficiency and digital innovation capabilities, ultimately resulting in sustained competitive advantages.
This study integrates upper-echelon theory with literature on industrial AI transformation, revealing the pivotal role played by technological core executives in the process of technological change. Furthermore, it also extends the understanding of hierarchical governance in emerging economies by elucidating the synergistic role of parent–subsidiary executive networks.
