Ernst & Young Is Paying $100 Million in Bonuses for Skills That AI Can’t Replace

Ernst & Young (EY) is offering up to $25,000 in bonuses to U.S. employees who demonstrate human skills that are essential in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). The Big Four professional-services firm plans to invest $100 million in rewarding employees who develop skills such as business acumen, judgment, and adaptability. These skills are crucial as AI takes over routine tasks and makes the profession more attractive to younger workers seeking stable, high-paying work.

EY's chief talent and culture officer, Ginnie Carlier, emphasized that rewarding employees defines what the firm values. The company aims to empower its professionals by encouraging a curious mindset, challenging what is possible, and shaping the future of EY US.

The challenge lies in balancing AI proficiency with the development of essential human skills. Young workers entering the accounting industry must master both, recognizing that overreliance on technology could limit their critical-thinking abilities. Recent surveys indicate that younger professionals are aware of the need to protect human skills and are already considering which capabilities they must preserve as AI assumes more of their responsibilities.

Companies like KPMG and PwC have noticed that Gen Z employees prioritize both human skills and the ability to effectively utilize AI. They emphasize the importance of evaluating information, applying context, exercising sound judgment, and explaining the reasoning behind recommendations as key factors in advancing to leadership roles.

However, the integration of AI in accounting firms also presents challenges for entry-level workers. A BambooHR survey found that 33% of new accounting and finance hires quit within their first year due to changes in the role of entry-level employees alongside technological advancements. Additionally, the industry now experiences a 3-to-1 ratio of senior-level hires to entry-level hires, indicating a shift towards favoring experienced workers even as they expect younger employees to develop the necessary skills for success in an AI-driven workplace.