In the fast-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, business leaders are racing to integrate cutting-edge tools into their daily operations. At the forefront of this transformation is David Larocca, the Regional Managing Partner and CEO of Oceania at EY, who has made it his mission to embed Microsoft 365 Copilot into the very fabric of his workday. Based in Sydney, Australia, Larocca oversees a workforce of 9,000 across the region and recognized early on that AI could revolutionize how his organization operates. His hands-on approach to adopting this generative AI tool offers a blueprint for other executives navigating the digital frontier, as detailed in a recent feature by Source Asia.

Larocca’s journey with Microsoft 365 Copilot began when EY’s member firms in Oceania became some of the earliest adopters of the technology in 2024. Rather than delegating the learning process, he committed himself to mastering the tool, dedicating at least an hour every two weeks to studying AI through reading, podcasts, and discussions with peers. This personal investment underscores his belief that leaders must “lead from the front” by actively engaging with new technologies rather than merely directing others to do so, according to Source Asia.

A Personal Commitment to AI Mastery

What started as simple tasks—asking Copilot to organize schedules or draft communications—quickly evolved into a deeper integration of the tool into Larocca’s routine. He now weaves AI into complex decision-making processes, using it to analyze data, generate insights, and streamline workflows. This shift has not only boosted his productivity but also set a powerful example for his team, demonstrating the tangible benefits of embracing innovation.

Beyond personal use, Larocca’s adoption of Microsoft 365 Copilot reflects a broader strategic vision for EY Oceania. He envisions AI as a transformative force that can enhance client services, improve internal efficiencies, and empower employees to focus on high-value tasks. By modeling this behavior, he hopes to inspire a cultural shift within the organization, where technology becomes a natural extension of everyday work, as highlighted by Source Asia.

Driving Organizational Change Through Example

Larocca’s approach also addresses a common challenge in tech adoption: resistance to change. By visibly using Copilot and sharing his experiences, he demystifies AI for his workforce, making it accessible and relevant. This top-down enthusiasm is critical in an industry where staying ahead of technological curves can define competitive advantage, and his efforts are already showing promise in reshaping how EY operates in the region.

As AI continues to redefine professional landscapes, leaders like David Larocca are proving that personal engagement with new tools can catalyze widespread transformation. His story, chronicled by Source Asia, serves as a compelling case study for executives worldwide. By weaving Microsoft 365 Copilot into his daily routine, Larocca not only enhances his own effectiveness but also paves the way for a future where AI is an integral part of business DNA. For industries watching closely, his example is a reminder that the path to innovation often begins with a single, committed step from the top.