PwC warns AI sceptics 'have no place' as firm accelerates shift to automated services

"Paul Griggs, who took over as US CEO in May 2024, said the professional services giant is moving decisively towards an AI-first operating model, with automation set to fundamentally alter how tax, audit and consulting services are delivered, and priced. In comments reported by the Financial Times, Griggs made clear that no one within the organisation would be exempt from the transformation, warning that those unwilling to embrace AI would ultimately be left behind."

"At the heart of PwC's strategy is a move away from the traditional billable-hours model that has long underpinned the economics of the Big Four. Instead, the firm is developing AI-powered tools capable of delivering services directly to clients without the need for constant human involvement. Some tax and consulting services are being converted into automated platforms that clients can access independently, with pricing expected to shift towards subscription-based models rather than time-based billing."

"The firm is set to formalise this direction with the launch of 'PwC One', a new AI platform offering clients access to a suite of automated services. Initially covering areas such as mergers and acquisitions due diligence and complex tax advisory, the platform is expected to expand rapidly as PwC builds out its AI capabilities."

PwC is undergoing a fundamental transformation toward an AI-first operating model under new US CEO Paul Griggs. The firm is moving away from traditional billable-hours pricing to subscription-based models, with AI-powered tools delivering services directly to clients with minimal human involvement. Tax and consulting services are being converted into automated platforms for independent client access. Partners unwilling to embrace this shift will not remain at the organization. PwC is launching 'PwC One', an AI platform offering automated services including mergers and acquisitions due diligence and complex tax advisory, with plans for rapid expansion. This represents a significant departure from the labor-intensive structure historically dependent on junior staff for routine tasks.

Read at Business Matters