Harry Gaskell, Chief Innovation Officer for EY UK and Ireland, discusses the future of consulting, skills needed, and EY's use of emerging technology. Topics include fostering a culture of innovation, evolving consulting career paths, building a diverse and innovative consulting firm, embracing AI in businesses, balancing skills development, and transitioning to value-based billing.
Emerging technologies will reshape Consulting of the Future.
Adapting to evolving career paths and gaining diverse experiences is crucial for success.
Balancing innovation with operational efficiency is key for business transformation.
Deep dives
Advising Consulting Firms on Digital Marketing Strategies
Many consulting firms rely heavily on traditional marketing channels like corporate blogs, but understanding digital marketing can significantly boost their growth. By using digital marketing effectively, consulting firms can enhance their business outreach and achieve rapid growth.
Discussion on the Consulting Industry with Harry Gaskell
Harry Gaskell, as EY's Chief Innovation Officer, discusses the evolving landscape of the consulting industry. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to emerging technologies to stay ahead of the competition. Gaskell shares insights on fostering a culture of innovation and the significance of gaining diverse experiences to thrive in the industry.
Navigating Career Journeys and Consulting Industry Changes
In the podcast episode, the importance of adapting to evolving career paths in consulting is highlighted. The traditional consulting career progression model is transitioning, demanding a broader range of skills and experiences for success. Gaskell suggests exploring varied roles, industries, and learning opportunities to prepare for the changing consulting landscape.
Impact of Technology Innovation in Business Transformation
The strategic role of innovation in transforming businesses is underscored by the integration of technologies like AI and blockchain. Gaskell discusses the necessity for organizations to balance technological advancements with foundational operational efficiencies. By strategically incorporating innovation, businesses can navigate disruptions and drive future growth.
Managing Technological Changes in the Workplace
Implementing new technology in the workplace can raise concerns among employees about job security and relevance. The podcast discusses how introducing automation and AI can streamline routine tasks, leading to fewer employees needed for certain roles. However, employees embraced the change, as it allowed them to focus on more engaging aspects of their jobs and develop skills for future roles. The leadership team recognized the importance of addressing these concerns and providing learning opportunities that align with evolving job demands.
Transitioning Business Models in Consulting
The shift from a time-based business model to a value-based approach poses challenges for consulting firms. Clients expect a change in billing models as technology reduces the time required for certain tasks. Adapting to this shift requires redefining the value delivered and convincing clients of the new pricing structure. The transformation necessitates a cultural shift within the organization and a focus on providing value-driven services rather than time-based offerings, highlighting the need for business model innovation and client communication.
Today’s Guest is Harry Gaskell, Chief Innovation Officer for EY UK and Ireland.
What is a Chief Innovation Officer? Well that’s something we discuss in today’s show but at it’s most basic, Harry is responsible for identifying emerging technologies to launch new platforms and products to help EY improve its clients’ businesses.
Prior to taking this role Harry was the Managing Partner of EY’s UK & Ireland Advisory business which he grew from zero to £250m during his time at the helm.
In addition to his work with EY Harry is the Chair of the Employers’ Network for Equality and Inclusion, Chair of the Finance Committee for the University of the Arts, London and an angel investor and mentor to a number of innovative start ups.
Harry was a fantastic guest with a truly unique perspective on the Consulting industry and how it’s going to change over the coming years. If you’re looking to understand how you can future proof your career and get to the top of the industry, or any industry for that matter, then you’re going to love this conversation.
We cover a whole host of topics including:
What the Consultancy of the Future will look like and how the skills needed and the approach to working with clients is going to fundamentally change.
The impacts these changes will have on the traditional Consulting Business model and the real world examples of how EYs use of emerging technology is resulting in them having to look at these questions now.
How to foster a culture of innovation within your organisation and the common mistakes that Consultancies and large corporates make when it comes to innovation.
And why taking some time out of Consulting could actually be the best thing for your long term Consulting career.
Harry was as open as he was insightful and this episode has a huge amount for everyone. Whether you’re a consultant just starting out or a managing partner running your own firm I know you’re going to get a lot from what Harry has to say.
You can get in touch with Harry through his LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-gaskell-ab94271/
This episode is brought to you by Create Engage the Digital Marketing agency for the disruptive Management Consultancy.
Specific things we discuss in the show:
Christopher Brooker’s theory of the 7 basic plots for all stories - https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/the-seven-basic-plots-9780826452092/
Kim Paykel - EYX Programme Director - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimpaykel/
EYX - https://www.ey.com/uk/en/services/specialty-services/ey-taking-innovation-to-the-next-level
George Orwell - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Orwell
My country Right or Left by George Orwell - https://www.amazon.co.uk/George-Orwell-1940-1943-Collected-Journalism/dp/1567921345
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