Melbourne AI agency calls time on shady AI used behind employees' backs

Enterprise Monkey

Melbourne, Australia — 29/10/2025
Melbourne-based AI agency Enterprise Monkey, led by bestselling author and AI commentator Aamir Qutub, has made a bold statement against what it calls “shady AI” — the growing trend of organisations quietly deploying AI tools and decision systems without telling their employees.

Qutub, who is also the host of the popular podcast The Dumb Monkey Show, says Enterprise Monkey has started refusing projects that fail to meet its standards for openness and human oversight.

“We were recently approached to build an AI-powered recruitment tool to shortlist candidates,” Qutub said. “But the organisation wasn’t prepared to tell applicants or staff that AI was part of the decision. That’s not how we work. If AI is going to make decisions that affect people, people deserve to know.”

While rejecting “secret AI” projects, Enterprise Monkey has doubled down on helping organisations adopt transparent and human-centred AI. The company has delivered AI strategy and Copilot rollouts that actively involve employees through training, open forums, and feedback loops.

“When people understand how AI is used, adoption soars,” Qutub explained. “We’ve seen higher engagement, fewer fears, and faster ROI when teams are part of the process. AI works best when humans trust it.”

Qutub, whose book The CEO Who Mocked AI became an international bestseller, believes this moment calls for stronger leadership across the tech industry.

“AI used behind employees’ backs erodes culture and credibility,” he said. “Confidentiality during development is fine — secrecy from your own people isn’t. It’s time we draw a line and commit to transparency.”

Enterprise Monkey’s stance forms part of its broader push to make AI ethical, transparent, and practical for Australian businesses. The company invites organisations to explore how transparent AI adoption can enhance both performance and trust.

Enterprise Monkey is a Melbourne-based AI and digital innovation agency helping organisations enhance efficiency and growth through AI strategy, automation, and custom software solutions. Founded in 2014, the company is known for its practical, ethical approach to AI and digital transformation.

Media Enquiries:
Aamir Qutub
Enterprise Monkey 
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🌐 www.enterprisemonkey.com.au