The Big News: Saudi Arabia's demand for foreign consultants is slowing, having widespread effects across the industry including firms like PwC’s Strategy&, BCG, and Roland Berger. While still a major market, the country is increasingly shifting towards in-house and private advisory services. Additionally, as Saudia Arabia moves from strategic planning to project execution, consultants must shift from strategy to implementation—firms that fail to adapt risk losing ground.
On the Move: FTI Consulting appointed Steven Stein as a Senior Managing Director in its Technology segment’s Information Governance, Privacy & Security practice in North America. With over 20 years of experience in data privacy and information governance, Stein’s expertise will be instrumental in helping clients navigate evolving regulatory and technological challenges.
The Buzz: Deloitte launched Zora AI, an AI platform featuring ready-to-deploy digital agents that autonomously handle complex business functions. Built on NVIDIA, Zora AI boosts efficiency across key functions such as finance, supply chain, and customer service. Deloitte currently uses Zora AI for their internal expense management processes, experiencing an impressive 25% cost reduction and 40% productivity increase.
On the Rise: Booz Allen Hamilton and Shield AI are partnering to deliver AI-powered autonomous solutions for the U.S. government. With Booz Allen's mission engineering expertise and Shield AI's Hivemind Enterprise platform, the collaboration will first focus on developing solutions for the Department of Defense.
What’s Next: Alvarez & Marsal shared their 2025 healthcare workforce predictions, highlighting financial pressures, workforce shortages, and AI’s rapid rise. Key trends: M&A activity will rise, emphasizing cultural integration. AI upskilling will be essential, and demand for senior care and home healthcare will increase, driven by demographic shifts. The healthcare gig economy will grow, while stricter immigration policies are expected to strain healthcare employers.
