Behind KPMG Appointing Steve Chase as Global Head of AI

David Rowlands, KPMG’s first Global Head of AI, has announced his retirement after establishing the professional services firm’s global AI strategy and ethical frameworks. 

His departure marks a transition in the firm’s technology leadership, with Steve Chase stepping into the newly expanded role.

KPMG International, which provides audit, tax and advisory services globally, appointed David as its inaugural AI leader in December 2023. 

During his tenure, he led efforts to integrate AI across service lines while  embedding ethical principles throughout the organisation’s 270,000-strong workforce.

David spearheaded development of KPMG’s Trusted AI Framework, establishing principles centred on fairness, human-centricity and sustainability. 

The framework sets standards for responsible AI implementation across the firm’s global network.

“[AI] is a double-edged sword that will cut both ways – employing AI for good and using AI to mitigate the impact of developing it,” David says.

Under his leadership, KPMG adopted a “client zero” approach, testing AI frameworks internally before rolling them out to clients. 

This methodology enabled enterprise-wide deployment with measured impact across operations.

David extended KPMG’s technological capabilities through agentic AI platforms including KPMG Ignite, Digital Gateway, Clara and Velocity. 

These platforms use autonomous agents to perform complex tasks without human intervention, forming critical components of the firm’s global strategy.

Research conducted during David’s tenure indicates 98% of surveyed organisations plan transformational change through AI implementation. 

The study reveals 67% of organisations investing more than US$100m in AI within a year, demonstrating enterprise commitment to artificial intelligence technologies.

How KPMG platforms enable workforce transformation across global operations

The AI platforms developed under David’s leadership enable professionals to deliver solutions with enhanced analytical capability. KPMG Ignite provides automated audit processes, while Digital Gateway offers clients integrated technology solutions. 

Clara serves as an audit platform using machine learning (ML) algorithms to analyse financial data, while Velocity focuses on tax compliance automation.

David advocated for workforce development alongside technological advancement.

“AI can be a way of reconnecting back with the workforce and becoming more effective, more powerful,” he says, highlighting upskilling initiatives within adoption strategies.

His work focused on establishing trust and transparency standards addressing algorithmic bias concerns and decision-making accountability.

“Our priority at KPMG is to be trusted and our Trusted AI Framework rolling out globally supports that vision for our clients,” David says.

The framework addresses digital divide concerns by promoting access, equity and ethical oversight across different markets. 

This approach recognises varying technological capabilities and regulatory environments in KPMG’s global operations.

What Steve Chase brings to his global digital innovation role

Steve brings experience from his role as Vice Chair for AI and Digital Innovation in KPMG’s US operations. 

His appointment signals the firm’s evolution from foundational AI integration towards scaling existing capabilities across its global network.

The transition occurs as Rob Fisher assumes the role of Global Head of Advisory, guiding more than 100,000 professionals in advisory services. 

These appointments accompany organisational changes designed to accelerate technology-focused client offerings.

Steve’s responsibilities encompass both AI implementation and broader digital innovation initiatives. 

This expanded scope reflects recognition that AI capabilities must integrate with comprehensive digital transformation strategies.

“It’s an honour to step into this role at a moment when AI is fundamentally reshaping how work gets done,” he says.

“We’re building on a strong foundation – and as agents usher in the next wave of disruption, we have a real opportunity to lead with clarity, consistency and speed.

“This isn’t just about deploying new tech,” he continues.

“It’s about aligning our global approach to scale trust, accelerate innovation and empower both our people and our clients to shape what comes next.”

“Rob and Steve are stepping into their global roles at a time of extraordinary transformation for KPMG and for clients,” Bill Thomas, Global Chairman and CEO of KPMG. 

“Their leadership in Advisory and AI, backed by our significant investments in these areas, will be instrumental as we accelerate our global Collective Strategy – helping make the difference for KPMG clients, people and society.”