Beyond the Basics: Generative AI’s impact on Business Processes

In January 2025, John Thompson, the Global Head of AI at Ernst and Young (EY), participated in the Wipro CDAO Council Podcast. During the discussion, Thompson, with over 35 years of experience in AI and author of 4 books on the subject, highlighted the evolution from early neural networks to the current advancements in generative and causal AI. He emphasized the importance of integrating various AI models, such as foundational, predictive, generative, and causal AI, to achieve comprehensive and effective solutions. He also highlighted the significance of domain-specific AI models for industry-specific applications and the need for an agent management platform to coordinate AI agents. He envisioned a future where AI significantly enhances productivity and creativity, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

About the speaker

John Thompson 

John Thompson brings over 35 years of experience in the fields of data, advanced analytics, and AI. He was responsible for the global AI function at EY and is responsible for the ideation, design, development, implementation, & use of innovative Generative AI, Traditional AI, & Causal AI solutions, across all of EY's service lines, operating functions, geographies, & for EY's clients. Prior to EY, he was responsible for the AI and advanced analytics team at CSL Behring, a leading biopharmaceutical company. John was an Executive Partner at Gartner, where he was management consultant to market leading companies in the areas of digital transformation, data monetization and advanced analytics. He is also the author of five books focused on analytics and AI. 

About the host

James Jeude

James Jeude is a member of the Data Analytics and AI Strategic Advisory practice and CDAO Council lead at Wipro. Prior to Wipro, he worked as a global practice leader with Cognizant, Ask.com, and Dun & Bradstreet. James's career has included leadership roles in sales, marketing, programming and product management in companies ranging from large data-intensive firms to text-mining companies and business consulting. 

Note: At the time of recording this podcast, John Thompson was with EY. He has since transitioned to a teaching position at the University of Michigan, reflecting his ongoing commitment to advancing the field of AI through education and research.