This paper demonstrates the complementarity between the systems approach and artificial intelligence (AI) in managing complex real-world situations, based on the authors’ thirty years of joint work. The focus is on practical experiences, primarily in the Peruvian context, where Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) was integrated with AI-based multi-criteria decision-modeling approaches. The methodology is based on applying SSM stages, depending on objectives of the specific use case, and integrating AI-based methods into stages that require culturally feasible and systemically desirable assessment of situations and decision alternatives. The approach is illustrated with three use cases. First, the intelligent performance evaluation of 144 non-financial Peruvian public enterprises, providing a systematic and data-driven basis for identifying improvement opportunities. Second, the design of an intelligent decision room to address strategic management challenges for a major Peruvian private enterprise group. Third, the intelligent assessment and management of risks in the Peruvian energy and mining sectors, enabling proactive and informed risk mitigation strategies. These cases illustrate how combining systems thinking with AI techniques can transform unstructured problems into actionable insights, bridging the gap between qualitative understanding and quantitative analysis. The approach provides a robust, effective and efficient framework for addressing complexity, supporting strategic decision-making in an uncertain world, and improving performance in diverse organizational and sectoral contexts.