How EY’s CEO David Larocca Leads AI Adoption with Microsoft 365 Copilot

How EY’s Regional CEO Integrated Microsoft 365 Copilot into Daily Leadership

David Larocca, EY’s Regional Managing Partner and CEO for Oceania, recognized early on that AI could significantly change how the firm’s 9,000 employees operate. As one of the first in the region to adopt Microsoft 365 Copilot in 2024, Larocca committed to understanding AI deeply. He sets aside at least an hour every two weeks to read, listen to podcasts, connect with peers, and actively use Copilot himself.

Leading by example is a core part of Larocca’s approach. He believes leaders must "roll up their sleeves" and engage directly with new tools rather than just instructing others to do so.

Beyond basic tasks: What Copilot delivers

Larocca began by delegating simple tasks like email organization to Copilot. Quickly, he realized the AI assistant could handle much more, such as summarizing meetings and documents. By Friday afternoons or Sunday evenings, Copilot helped him plan his upcoming week efficiently.

Preparing for client meetings became faster with Copilot’s ability to summarize key materials and update him on client developments. For difficult conversations, Larocca would share his concerns with Copilot and receive a well-crafted initial draft, which he would then personalize. This process helped him focus on what truly mattered.

He even used Copilot live during a panel discussion about EY’s alliance with Microsoft—demonstrating transparency and commitment to AI adoption at the highest level.

Within EY Oceania, Copilot has made executive meetings more productive by generating real-time summaries, capturing agreements, suggesting follow-ups, and answering questions. This allows executives to pause and resume meetings without losing context, effectively buying them more time.

Widespread adoption and impact

Copilot's use extends beyond leadership, with nearly 70% of EY’s Oceania workforce adopting the AI assistant. It has freed employees from repetitive tasks like gathering credentials for proposals, enabling them to focus on creating winning strategies and delivering higher value to clients.

Larocca sees this as a huge opportunity for EY’s people and business to increase impact and speed in client service.

Key takeaways from an early adopter

• Clarity on purpose: Leaders must articulate why AI tools like Copilot matter to their organization. The reasons will differ, but engagement is essential across industries.
• Lead from the front: Executives should make AI learning a regular habit—experiment with tools, test prompts, and stay curious.
• Share the journey: Transparency about AI exploration encourages teams to adopt and innovate.
• Continuous learning: The potential applications of AI expand with ongoing use and training.

Larocca expects to discover many more ways to leverage Copilot as he continues to explore its capabilities.

Executives seeking practical guidance on AI adoption and Microsoft 365 Copilot can explore specialized training options at Complete AI Training. Consistent, hands-on engagement with AI tools is the most effective way to integrate them into daily workflows and leadership practices.