How Does Artificial Intelligence Shape Green Innovation Ambidexterity? The Moderating Role of Managerial Characteristics

Amid the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and growing environmental pressures, this study empirically examines the impact of AI adoption intensity on green innovation ambidexterity (GIA), drawing on organizational ambidexterity theory and dynamic capabilities theory. We also examine the complementary and moderating roles of CEO characteristics in the context of AI technology. Using data from Chinese A-share listed firms during 2011–2025, we test these hypotheses. The results show that AI adoption intensity exhibits an inverted U-shaped relationship with GIA. Mechanism analysis shows that dynamic capabilities mediate the relationship between AI adoption intensity and GIA. Both CEO IT background and CEO green experience attenuate the effect of AI adoption intensity on GIA. CEO power attenuates the moderating effect of CEO IT background on this relationship. Heterogeneity tests indicate that the effect of AI adoption intensity on GIA is more pronounced in non-heavy-polluting industries and state-owned enterprises. This study provides new evidence on the link between AI adoption and GIA. It also clarifies and validates the complementary and moderating effects of CEO characteristics on AI-driven outcomes, offering practical micro-level insights for firms to strategically deploy digital technologies and achieve sustainable and balanced green innovation.