PricewaterhouseCoopers US Chief Executive Paul Griggs has warned that partners at the consulting firm who fail to embrace artificial intelligence technology face potential replacement.

In comments to the Financial Times, Griggs said senior staff who are not "paranoid about being AI-first" would likely be replaced by others ready to adopt the technology. He emphasized that no one at the firm would receive exemptions from this expectation.

"I don't think anyone gets a free pass here. Anyone," Griggs stated, indicating that the AI adoption requirement applies across all levels of the organization.

The warning reflects the broader push by major consulting firms to integrate AI capabilities into their operations and service offerings. Professional services companies have been investing heavily in AI tools and training as they seek to maintain competitive advantages and meet evolving client demands.

PwC, one of the "Big Four" accounting and consulting firms, has been among the companies positioning itself as a leader in AI implementation across the professional services sector. The firm's stance signals that AI proficiency is becoming a core competency requirement rather than an optional skill for senior personnel.