Applications of Artificial Intelligence for Enhancing Digital Administrative Performance: How and When Senior Management Drives Digital Transformation in Jordanian Food Industry Companies

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a transformative force in organizational management, driving automation, data-driven decisions, and digital efficiency. This study examines the application of AI in enhancing digital administrative performance and explores how and when top management interventions influence digital transformation within Jordan’s food manufacturing sector. The research focuses on four companies Siniora Food Industries, Kasih Food Manufacturing Group, Petra Juice Concentrates, and Jaddo Sweilem Factory for Halva and Tahini using a mixed-methods approach that combines survey data (n = 178) with executive interviews. Guided by the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework and Dynamic Capabilities Theory, the analysis using PLS-SEM reveals that AI adoption significantly improves administrative efficiency (β = 0.321, p < 0.001). Top management support (β = 0.298, p < 0.001) and the timing of managerial intervention (β = 0.215, p < 0.01) further strengthen performance outcomes. Mediation analysis confirms that process automation and data-driven decision-making are the key pathways through which AI enhances digital effectiveness. The findings emphasize that early, proactive executive engagement ensures smoother technological integration and higher organizational readiness. The study contributes by integrating the concept of timing into digital-leadership research and provides a practical framework for industries in developing economies to achieve sustainable digital excellence.