Transforming With AI & Sustainability At The Core
Since taking over as CEO in 2022, Yezdi Nagporewalla has driven strategic growth at KPMG India by embracing generative AI, talent development and sustainability
KPMG’s story in India can be said to be marked by growth and innovation under the leadership of its CEO, Yezdi Nagporewalla. Reflecting on the past two years, several milestones stand out but most of all, it is the company’s commitment to the bigger picture and planning that has allowed it to navigate challenges. Nagporewalla shares his thoughts on the big developments and focus areas at the consultancy.
On KPMG’s milestones and initiatives…
One of the key initiatives for the company has been generative AI adoption. The focus on talent development too has been pivotal, ensuring that we attract and nurture the best minds. We have placed a significant emphasis on environmental, social and governance (ESG), aligning our operations with the broader goals of sustainability and social responsibility. In addition to our achievements in India, our work and partnerships in nearby regions such as Nepal and Sri Lanka have been a testament to KPMG’s commitment to growth and innovation beyond borders.
Furthermore, the KPMG Innovation Kaleidoscope - Insights Centre in Mumbai and Bengaluru are milestones that encapsulate our ethos of collaborative innovation. This facility serves as a nexus for co-creation, bringing together clients, startups and strategic partners to address complex business challenges with a blend of Indian and global solutions, including AR-VR devices, tax technologies and digital solutions for ESG.
On balancing regulatory compliance, tech advancements and ethical standards…
At KPMG in India, we are not just balancing between compliance, technology and ethics but integrating them into the fabric of our strategy to create a lasting impact that goes beyond business success. It is about building a sustainable, inclusive future for India and indeed, for the world.
Regulatory compliance is the cornerstone of our operations. In India, where the regulatory landscape is dynamic, our focus is on staying ahead of changes. Our governance framework is robust, ensuring we comply with the regulations and also anticipate future shifts to maintain and enhance our market position.
With a booming tech sector and a young, digitally savvy population, we are leveraging cutting-edge technologies to drive innovation.
Ethical standards remain non-negotiable. In a country as diverse and complex as ours, acting with integrity and making ethically sound decisions is paramount. Our initiatives, like the ‘AI Impact Initiative’, resonate deeply here, as we aim to bring responsible AI to the non-profit sector, contributing to India’s socio-economic development.
Strategically, we are focused on making a tangible impact. Our Impact Plan 2024 outlines our dedication to sustainable and ethical business practices, reflecting our choices that help our clients and communities thrive.
On the integration of AI, machine learning (ML) and other digital tools in auditing and accounting practices…
The integration of these technologies is a paradigm shift that is redefining auditing and accounting practices. In India, our professionals are embracing these advancements with remarkable agility and enthusiasm. We are a nation known for its adaptability and innovation. Our professionals are no exception to this. They are effectively upskilling and reskilling to harness the power of AI and ML, which is evident in the way they are leveraging these technologies to deliver enhanced audit quality and insights.
Built with a culture that aims to further nurture adaptability and fosters a mindset of innovation, we are committed to ensuring our staff is future-ready. To this end, we provide continuous learning opportunities, access to the latest tools and technologies, and an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. Our goal is to empower our professionals to not just meet but exceed client expectations in this digital transformation era.
On KPMG’s global strength and cross-border learning…
One of the key benefits of our global strength, with our network spanning over 145 countries, is the ability to tap into a vast expertise pool. We have the advantage of diverse perspectives that drive innovation and problem-solving. This is particularly evident in our collaborative efforts in the region, such as the recent partnership with the Investment Board Nepal, which is a testament to how strategic partnerships can drive sustainable growth of economies.
Furthermore, our global presence positions us uniquely to play an important role in shaping the profession’s future. We are at the forefront of driving innovation, whether it is through our investments in advanced technologies like AI and data analytics or our efforts to redefine assurance methodologies to enhance transparency and trust.
On overcoming challenges and advice to aspiring leaders…
Over the years, my leadership style has evolved significantly, adapting to the dynamic and swiftly changing technology landscape. The ease of adopting new technologies has simplified complex business problems, allowing for faster solutions and the growth of new businesses. This technological advancement has necessitated a shift towards a more agile and flexible leadership approach.
The core principles that guide my decision-making are deeply rooted in our commitment to integrity, excellence and collaboration. I practise transparent communication, ensuring that our people are well-informed and empowered to make the right decisions. Another cornerstone of my leadership philosophy is a commitment to diversity and inclusion, which I believe is essential to maximise the strength of our workforce.
