EY's Jad Shimaly on how AI is reshaping business and the workplace

The rise of artificial intelligence is no longer a distant technological promise but a present-day force reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. EY executive Jad Shimaly’s remarks at VivaTech in Paris underscore a critical inflection point: AI is not merely an operational tool but a transformative catalyst for how businesses function, compete, and redefine work itself. This shift matters because it transcends efficiency gains—it challenges traditional organizational structures, reallocates human capital, and forces industries to confront existential questions about adaptability and leadership in an automated era. What makes this moment particularly consequential is the convergence of AI’s rapid maturation with the lingering effects of the post-pandemic workforce. Remote and hybrid models have already redefined collaboration, and AI is now accelerating that evolution by automating routine tasks, augmenting decision-making, and even influencing recruitment processes. Yet the broader significance lies in how this technology could exacerbate inequalities between companies that can harness it effectively and those left behind—raising concerns about job displacement, skills gaps, and the ethical use of AI in hiring and performance evaluation. Behind the scenes, the consulting industry, of which EY is a prominent player, is uniquely positioned to guide enterprises through this transition. Firms like EY are not just adopting AI but reimagining their own business models, from predictive analytics in consulting engagements to AI-driven talent strategies. This dual role—as both advisor and adopter—gives them a vantage point to shape industry norms, yet it also invites scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest. Looking ahead, the most pressing questions revolve around governance and human agency. How will companies balance AI’s productivity benefits with the need for transparency and accountability? Will regulations keep pace with innovation, or will industries self-police in a fragmented global landscape? Meanwhile, the workplace itself could fragment further, with AI creating "augmented" roles that blend human judgment with machine-driven insights—a hybrid model that could redefine professional identity. Ultimately, Shimaly’s insights reflect a broader truth: AI is not just changing *what* businesses do, but *who* they are. The challenge ahead is ensuring this transformation serves not just shareholders, but the workforce and society at large.