Inside the Process: How EY Navigated Its Own AI-Driven Transformation

Explore how EY embraced an AI-driven transformation investing $1.4 billion to develop responsible AI initiatives, focusing on cloud systems, talent acquisition, and strategic pathways.

Mayank Gautam
May 21, 2025

Introduction

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, EY has taken monumental steps to self-disrupt and embrace responsible AI advancement. This case study delves into how EY embarked on its AI-driven transformation journey.

Part 1: The Better the Question

EY initiated its transformation by asking pivotal questions on harnessing AI to create value. The company invested $1.4 billion in internal transformation to enhance responsible AI practices. Key initiatives included:

  • Transitioning to cloud and centralized data systems
  • Strategic acquisitions and talent acquisition
  • Developing real-world AI use cases as “Client Zero”
  • Upskilling employees and modernizing risk management processes

Raj Sharma, EY Global Managing Partner – Growth and Innovation, stated: By acting as our own ‘Client Zero’, EY is determining answers to these questions now – so that we can guide our clients based on real experience and practical use cases of AI technology.

Part 2: The Better the Answer

EY outlines six strategic pathways to revolutionize EY, their clients, and society. The focus areas include:

  • Strategy
  • People
  • Technology
  • Governance
  • Clients
  • Society

Emphasizing ethical AI governance, centralized technical platforms, and AI-powered service disruption were pivotal.

Alexei Ivanov, EY Global Risk Management – Transformation and Innovation Leader, commented: A Responsible AI framework is critical to our AI journey...

Part 3: The Better the World Works

With a vision for ethical AI, EY launched the EY.ai platform which hosts:

  • EY.ai Maturity Model
  • EY.ai Value Accelerator
  • Responsible AI Framework
  • EY.ai Confidence Index
  • EY.ai Academy for Industries

Achievements include:

  • Over 1,000 GenAI proof of concepts
  • 81% employee adoption of EY.ai EYQ
  • 83% workforce completion of foundational AI learning
  • Over 2 million AI-related learning hours

Raj Sharma emphasized: The true potential of AI can only be realized if it remains human-centric.

Their global engagement includes 100+ consultations on AI policy and founding the EY.ai Global AI Advisory Council, impacting 2.5 million people through the AI for Social Impact program.

Conclusion

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