Joe Depa Takes on Global Innovation Leadership at EY
On November 27, 2024, EY (Ernst & Young) officially announced the appointment of Joe Depa as its new Global Director of Innovation. In this strategic role, Depa will spearhead EY’s efforts to leverage and implement advanced technologies that directly address pressing business challenges and shape a confident future for both the firm and its clients.
Depa's wealth of experience and expertise in innovative thinking and cultural transformation come at a pivotal time when emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and blockchain are reshaping industries and redefining the business landscape. Recognizing the urgency of adapting to these changes, EY has made considerable investments in areas driving significant growth and opportunity for its clients. Recently, the firm established the EY.ai Global Advisory Board to enhance its AI initiatives further.
As the Global Director of Innovation, Depa will oversee EY's global innovation strategy, focusing on the successful deployment of cutting-edge technologies across the firm’s diverse services as well as for clients in different sectors. Raj Sharma, EY’s Global Managing Partner for Growth and Innovation, expressed enthusiasm regarding Depa’s appointment, stating:
"In times of constant breakthroughs, success requires a forward-thinking approach and the willingness to make bold decisions rooted in innovative mindsets. We are excited that Joe brings profound knowledge and insight into AI and data to lead our strategic innovation initiatives, empowering our teams to help clients confidently navigate their futures."
During the last decade, Joe Depa has emerged as a prominent figure in the realm of innovation, engaging with high-level executives and boards to launch groundbreaking products and services designed to enhance client and employee experiences while improving operational efficacy through technology. Most recently, he served as the inaugural Chief Data and AI Officer at a leading university and healthcare organization, where he played a crucial role in promoting AI literacy, establishing responsible AI governance frameworks, and ensuring data security.
Prior to that, he was a Senior Managing Director and Global Lead for Data and AI at a multinational professional services firm, where he spearheaded a team of AI strategists and data engineers in developing and introducing new solutions and services.
Upon his appointment, Joe Depa expressed his enthusiasm, stating:
"I am thrilled to join an organization so committed to the transformational potential of emerging technologies. I look forward to collaborating with the EY teams and clients to harness innovation in bold new ways that create value through data, AI, and new technologies for a better world."
Depa is recognized as a thought leader in the AI space, having been named one of the 'Top 50 Global Leaders' by the World Summit AI, alongside other accolades, including Fast Company’s 'World Changing Idea.' At EY, he will work on integrating innovative technologies that will not only address current business challenges but also pave the way for sustainable growth and improvements across various sectors.
With a strong focus on preparing clients for the future, EY remains dedicated to building a better working world by creating new value for clients, people, society, and the planet, while also bolstering trust in capital markets. By employing advanced data analytics, AI, and other pioneering technologies, EY aims to support its clients in confidently shaping their futures and finding answers to the pressing questions of today and tomorrow.
In conclusion, as Joe Depa takes the helm of innovation at EY, stakeholders can expect an invigorated focus on transformation and technology that will redefine how businesses operate and thrive in an increasingly uncertain yet opportunity-filled world. To learn more about EY's initiatives, visit
ey.com.