The recent launch of KPMG’s AI Hub in Garden City, Suva, signifies an important development in the field of professional technological services for Fiji and the South Pacific region. This initiative expands upon KPMG Enterprise’s Fiji Dynamix, which is based in Nadi, with a goal to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to transform the company’s operations and improve the services offered to clients.
KPMG Australia’s Chief Digital Officer, John Munnelly, along with KPMG Fiji’s Managing Partner, Lisa Apted, shared insights with The Fiji Times regarding the Hub’s objectives and functions in Fiji. They emphasized their vision as one that prioritizes not only internal innovation but also the empowerment of local talent and the promotion of a culture steeped in learning and adaptability.
Munnelly detailed that the primary aim of the Hub is part of KPMG’s ambitious, swift, and responsible AI strategy. “We strive to incorporate AI across all our activities to maintain our leading position in this evolving landscape,” he noted. This approach includes developing solutions that boost productivity and streamline operations, initially within KPMG and later extending to clients in sectors like education, healthcare, and finance.
Apted described the AI Hub as groundbreaking, providing local professionals with the chance to initiate and lead in the development of AI programs. The Hub focuses on building skill sets that not only benefit KPMG but also enhance the capabilities of the local workforce, enabling them to engage with cutting-edge technology.
Munnelly revealed plans for the Hub to address around 80 use cases in the upcoming months, including tools for research assistance and automated proposal writing. He expressed that the opportunities are vast, stating, “Our aim is to boost productivity and support our clients by providing innovative tools that can redefine traditional workflows.”
Another significant tool in development is KPMG’s version of ChatGPT, named Kim Chat, which enhances internal information retrieval and knowledge sharing, embodying the trend of AI as a driver of efficiency and innovation. A major commitment of the AI Hub is to nurture local talents; Munnelly noted that the enthusiasm and innovative spirit found within Fiji are essential to their recruitment efforts.
“We are impressed by the eagerness of young professionals to learn about AI. This hub will equip them with invaluable skills and exposure to global projects,” he remarked. Apted also expressed excitement for the opportunities the Hub offers to young Fijians and indicated plans for team expansion, which could result in significant career growth for graduates interested in technology.
KPMG executives highlighted the importance of collaboration in their AI Hub strategy, with plans to partner with local universities to create entry points for students into the tech industry. Munnelly stressed the importance of attracting women into technology roles and shared that they recently hosted a session for young women in tech to inspire and bring them into their workforce.
Training and educational initiatives are prioritized, with KPMG developing 130 AI-related courses for its employees. Munnelly also emphasized the importance of “trusted AI,” where ethical considerations are integrated into the AI development framework to ensure compliance with European Union standards.
Despite facing challenges, Munnelly acknowledged the necessity for ongoing training and adaptation to keep pace with technological advancements. He emphasized continuous learning as a critical skill for the team, ensuring that ethical considerations are a fundamental component of their operations.
In measuring the Hub’s success, Munnelly explained that KPMG uses metrics focused on digital full-time equivalents (FTEs), assessing both quality and quantity in time savings through AI tools. The Hub is projected to contribute about 125 digital FTEs this year, with expectations to double that in the future.
Looking forward, both Munnelly and Apted expressed optimism about the Hub’s future. Munnelly remarked on the potential for growth in-demand for AI solutions, citing the raw but promising talent in Fiji. Apted echoed this sentiment, asserting that the AI Hub is poised to transform KPMG’s operations while playing a crucial role in advancing Fiji’s technological landscape. “This initiative is a game changer for our people and the economy. We are enthusiastic about the opportunities it presents,” she stated.
In summary, KPMG’s AI Hub in Suva represents more than just a technological advancement.