Podcast
Tech Directions
Hosted by EY Microsoft · EN
Welcome to the EY Microsoft Tech Directions podcast series – your briefing on the biggest technology trends and how they will help organizations build a better working world. We investigate the benefits of technologies and discuss how they herald a new era of improved customer, employee and stakeholder experiences, while also increasing return on investment for shareholders. In each podcast we’ll reveal how EY and Microsoft can help companies digitally transform by applying their considerable experience and innovative technologies.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How Agentic AI can transform enterprise operations through co-innovation
3w ago00:24:02Tap to summarizeStep into a lively discussion where experts from EY and Microsoft share how Agentic AI is changing the game for enterprise operations—especially within the SAP ecosystem. Rather than sticking to traditional, reactive AI, the conversation explores how intelligent agents are now able to sense, reason, and act, bringing a proactive edge to business processes.You’ll hear how this evolution isn’t just about adopting new technology. It’s about building trust, developing expertise, and having a strategic vision to truly unlock value. The speakers dive into the real-world impact: organizations can move faster, make smarter decisions, and get more out of their SAP investments, all while adapting to today’s unpredictable business landscape.The episode doesn’t shy away from challenges. Leaders talk candidly about overcoming resistance to change, tackling talent shortages, and ensuring strong data governance. There’s also a thoughtful look at workforce transformation—while some worry about job displacement, the consensus is that Agentic AI frees people from repetitive tasks, letting them focus on work that matters most.Throughout, the importance of upskilling and continuous learning is emphasized. Success with Agentic AI, especially in SAP environments, depends on a culture of curiosity and collaboration between humans and AI. If you’re interested in how co-innovation is driving measurable outcomes and reshaping enterprise systems, this conversation is for you.Speakers:Mark Luquire: Global Microsoft Alliance Co-innovation Leader; Managing Director, Microsoft Alliance, Ernst & Young LLPPat Sullivan: Global Digital Engineering Lead; Ernst & Young, LLPMark Skoog: Managing Director, Strategic Partnerships, Microsoft
Transcribe →How to navigate the complexity of enterprise data supply chains
Mar 5, 202500:39:19Tap to summarizeA data-first strategy can shape the future of finance, accounting and assuranceThe shift toward advanced analytics, AI, and a streamlined data supply chain is transforming how organizations manage finance, accounting and assurance. A robust data-first approach—encompassing real-time insights, scalable technology, and heightened security—helps organizations gain clarity over billions of records, reduce risk, and uncover new efficiencies.Host Susannah Streeter welcomes Michel Porter, a Partner at EY and EY’s Global Assurance Analytics Leader, and Arun Ulag, Microsoft Corporate Vice President, Azure Data, to discuss how this technology-driven collaboration is unlocking value from some of the world’s largest and most complex data sets.EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. The views of third parties set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of the global EY organization or its member firms. Moreover, they should be seen in the context of the time they were made.
Transcribe →How to rethink the power of your data and unleash new value with AI
Sep 6, 202400:35:06Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the EY Microsoft Tech Directions podcast, hosted by Susannah Streeter, the focus is on harnessing the power of data and artificial intelligence (AI) to unlock new business value. Joining the conversation are Anna Stamatelatos, Americas Leader for Analytics and Data at Microsoft, and Edward Bobrin, Ernst & Young LLP, leader of Microsoft Data and AI Competency. The episode explores the critical role of data as a strategic asset in today's digital era, emphasizing the necessity of high-quality data and effective governance to derive actionable insights. They discuss the challenges businesses face with data silos and integration, stressing the importance of a broad data strategy and the use of hyper-connected systems for efficient data management. They highlight how companies can overcome data bias by continuously monitoring data sets and incorporating third-party data for a balanced view. The discussion showcases real-world examples of AI driving new revenue streams, improving operational efficiency, and help enhancing customer personalization across various sectors, including retail, health care, and manufacturing. Practical strategies for starting on this journey include defining clear use cases, investing in scalable data platforms and leveraging collaborations for knowledge. Looking ahead, the episode predicts continued advancements in AI and natural language processing, with AI becoming increasingly embedded in everyday business tools. The importance of responsible AI practices, data security, and ongoing employee training is emphasized to help ensure ethical and effective use of AI. Key takeaways: Understand the role of AI in transforming data management and generating actionable insights, emphasizing strategies for overcoming data silos and addressing data quality Appreciate AI's potential to create new revenue streams, improve operational efficiency and personalize customer experiences across various industries Recognize the importance of training and help empowering workforces to utilize AI effectively, highlighting the shift from routine data management to strategic decision-making EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. The views of third parties set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of the global EY organization or its member firms. Moreover, they should be seen in the context of the time they were made.
Transcribe →How to use cybersecurity as a global business enabler
Jun 11, 202400:28:57Tap to summarizeAs cyber threats continue to escalate, companies worldwide are grappling with the complexities of keeping their operations both secure and compliant. Our conversation sheds light on the rise of zero trust — a method that minimizes access to what's essential — as a key element in modern cyber defense tactics. Join host Susannah Streeter as she engages with cybersecurity experts Paul Frate, Security Specialist at Microsoft; Sam Tang, EY Digital Identity Leader for the Americas; and Kevin Runyan, Managing Director at EY. They'll discuss the shifting landscape of international data protection laws, the growing importance of establishing trustworthy digital identities, and the strategic combination of digital identity with zero trust concepts to enhance both digital security and business productivity. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. The views of third parties set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of the global EY organization or its member firms. Moreover, they should be seen in the context of the time they were made.
Transcribe →How tech and data can unlock sustainable value
Mar 27, 202400:44:15Tap to summarizeThe world is on a quest to become more sustainable – but what does that mean in practice? How could advances in artificial intelligence help achieve environmental goals? Susannah Streeter welcomes Ben Taylor, EY Market Leader for Climate Change and Sustainability Services, and Mark Kroese, General Manager of the Sustainability Solutions team at Microsoft to discuss very latest generative AI approaches, methodologies, pitfalls and use cases. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. The views of third parties set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of the global EY organization or its member firms. Moreover, they should be seen in the context of the time they were made.
Transcribe →How to drive meaningful business impact with intelligent automation
Dec 8, 202300:40:34Tap to summarizeIn a rapidly evolving tech landscape, stagnant and outdated business processes are more than just financial pitfalls—they are barriers to scaling and innovation. The incentives to shift to automation and leverage AI are massive. Susannah Streeter welcomes William Smith, Senior Manager for EY Consulting, Jack Virdee, VP of Finance and Automation Leader at Omnicom, and Stephen Siciliano, VP Power Automate at Microsoft, to deep dive into the world of automation and AI. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. The views of third parties set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of the global EY organization or its member firms. Moreover, they should be seen in the context of the time they were made.
Transcribe →How responsible Generative AI creates challenges and opportunities
Nov 1, 202300:45:14Tap to summarizeGenerative AI offers innovative avenues for content but comes with challenges and societal implications, from misinformation threats to ethical dilemmas. Businesses must adopt a balanced approach. Susannah Streeter welcomes Nate Harris, General Manager and Global Leader for Data & AI at Microsoft, and Beatriz Sanz Saiz, EY's Global Consulting Data and AI Leader, to discuss the latest generative AI approaches, methodologies, pitfalls and use cases. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. The views of third parties set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of the global EY organization or its member firms. Moreover, they should be seen in the context of the time they were made.
Transcribe →How technology is shaping the employee experience
Jun 15, 202300:48:48Tap to summarizeTechnology has long been instrumental in enabling HR leaders to create efficient and less stressful work environments, and its importance has only grown. Susannah Streeter welcomes Maya Smallwood, EY Global People Advisory Services People Experience Leader, and Reamonn Stynes, Director of Strategic Partner Development for Microsoft Modern Work, to discuss the profound transformation that the world of work has undergone in recent years. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms ofErnst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young GlobalLimited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. The views of third parties set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of the global EY organization or its member firms. Moreover, they should be seen in the context of the time they were made.
Transcribe →Getting more for your security dollars
May 4, 202300:37:19Tap to summarizeUnderperforming and needlessly complex security systems aren't just a drain on day-to-day budgets, they can also open the back door to cyber criminals. Susannah Streeter welcomes Dave Burg, EY Americas Cybersecurity Leader and Kelly Bissell, CVP, Microsoft Security Solution Services, to discuss the benefits of simplifying security and where to spend money doing so. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. The views of third parties set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of the global EY organization or its member firms. Moreover, they should be seen in the context of the time they were made.
Transcribe →Establishing rapid foundations for mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and startups
Feb 27, 202300:32:37Tap to summarizeM&A activity presents opportunities but can equally bring on plenty of business migraines – particularly operational struggles through the transition. How can companies make progress more quickly, efficiently, and most importantly effectively? Susannah Streeter welcomes Alex Corps, partner focused on Microsoft Business Applications innovation at Ernst & Young, LLC, United Kingdom, Bimal Pall, Strategy and Transactions partner at EY-Parthenon, and Amer Dalain, Global Solutions Strategy Leader for Dynamics 365 Finance at Microsoft, to discuss why businesses simply can’t afford for transformations to fail. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. The views of third parties set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of the global EY organization or its member firms. Moreover, they should be seen in the context of the time they were made.
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