2 top EY leaders explain why a lack of experience is a junior consultant's big advantage in the age of AI
Business Insider
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
EY’s top leaders argue that inexperience can be a significant advantage for junior consultants in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). According to Dan Diasio, EY’s global consulting AI leader, new graduates bring fresh perspectives unencumbered by years of traditional assumptions about how work should be done. This lack of preconceived ideas allows them to challenge established processes and rethink workflows from a blank slate. Errol Gardner, global head of consulting at EY, adds that young professionals possess the digital skills and creativity needed to thrive in an AI-driven world, positioning them as valuable assets for firms like EY.
Despite concerns about AI replacing entry-level roles, EY has not altered its graduate hiring goals. The firm continues to prioritize recruiting to support growth in its consulting business, even as other Big Four firms like PwC have reduced hiring targets due to AI’s impact. EY invests heavily in AI, with over $1 billion annually spent on developing AI-first platforms and products. This focus on AI integration has shifted the role of consultants, with less emphasis on repetitive “assembly” tasks like building slide decks and more on interpreting data and shaping outcomes.
The article highlights the evolving nature of consulting roles, where professionals are increasingly expected to act as creators of new business models and opportunities rather than just执行 routine tasks. While AI tools can handle certain aspects of work efficiently, human creativity and adaptability remain critical
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/25/2026