Hayley McKelvey becomes Deloitte’s first AI chief
As clients continue to turn to consulting firms for AI transformations, Deloitte has announced the creation of a new chief AI officer post. Hayley McKelvey will take on the role, bringing 20 years of technology and advisory knowhow to the role.
Commenting on her new role, Hayley McKelvey, commented, “I am honoured to step into this role at a time when AI is fundamentally reshaping professional services… I look forward to working with our partners to build on our momentum and continue to deliver real, measurable outcomes with AI.”
AI transformations are becoming a central service of the largest consulting firms – with clients struggling to see returns on their notable investments in the technology. McKelvey added to that she believes data, AI and technology are “changing how business is done, with profound implications for economies, organisations and the future of work”. Therefore, “harnessing the power of AI responsibly and strategically, both for our clients and in our own operations, is my priority”.
Joining Deloitte’s executive from the start of June 2026, McKelvey will be responsible for driving the firm’s AI strategy across client services and internal operations and accelerating the firm’s progress towards becoming the leading AI-enabled professional services firm in the UK.
She is promoted from within Deloitte, having served most recently as the firm’s AI officer for the UK’s tax and legal practices. With over 20 years of technology and transformation experience, a release from the Big Four firm said “she has a proven track record of delivering measurable outcomes through long-term digital transformation programmes for clients and within Deloitte.”
Darren Graves, UK chief executive of Deloitte, remarked, “I’m excited to be welcoming Hayley to our executive. By appointing a chief AI officer to the UK executive, we are sharpening our focus on the future and positioning our firm for continued growth as the next-generation professional services firm.”
