BDO USA has launched an AI strategy aimed at empowering its people and clients to work more strategically.  

The accounting and advisory firm said it has made advances over the past two years, including implementing a responsible AI governance framework and deploying an AI learning curriculum for its professionals. 

The strategy is supported by a global investment of more than $1bn over five years.  

To lead this initiative, BDO USA appointed Mike Gerhard as chief data and AI officer in 2024.  

Gerhard is responsible for spearheading the firm’s data and AI projects and using data analytics and technology to drive business insights and innovation. 

Gerhard collaborates with leaders across the firm to develop proprietary AI tools that enhance how BDO professionals work and improve service delivery for clients.  

He also oversees the firm’s research and AI development (RAID) team, focusing on research and prototyping based on business priorities. 

BDO began piloting potential tools and approaches in early 2023 and has since achieved several business milestones.  

The firm believes AI must be purpose-built to augment daily needs, creating solutions that enhance human capabilities and minimise errors, allowing professionals to focus on strategic work. 

One of the tools, Chat BDO, is an internal, secure, generative AI platform customised for BDO-specific processes to improve productivity.  

Another tool, Consultative Selling Account Insights, uses AI to analyse data, helping BDO professionals identify opportunities and make informed recommendations.  

BDO’s AI strategy also includes learning and development opportunities to empower professionals to adopt AI responsibly.  

AI Ambassadors champion BDO’s AI solutions, while the AI upskilling programme teaches best practices, trends, and ethical considerations. 

As BDO continues to innovate, it focuses on several high-impact areas, including generative AI assistants, AI-driven personalisation, AI business automation, and multimodal AI.  

Gerhard said: “At BDO, we already see AI unlocking new opportunities for our people and our clients. Our approach with the RAID team reflects BDO’s commitment to providing innovation that drives business growth, enhances operational performance, and adds value to our relationships.  

“We are seeking to be both agile and responsible as this technology quickly develops. By investing in dedicated teams, a proprietary AI approach, and custom solutions, we’re setting a new standard for innovation in professional services and will continue embracing the next generation of solutions.”