Latest news with #Peko
Business Wire
20-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Grant Thornton launches new tool, pairing skilled professionals with powerful AI agents
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Grant Thornton, one of America's largest providers of end-to-end audit, assurance, tax and advisory services, announced today the launch of a new, proprietary artificial intelligence solution, CompliAI ™. CompliAI is part of a broader transformation in how Grant Thornton's professionals help clients control and assess risks and address their most pressing business needs. Grant Thornton developed CompliAI using Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, allowing it to operate as a fully integrated web application that enhances and streamlines the compliance process for service delivery teams. The platform uses advanced AI capabilities, including GenAI Assistants and a GPT Model Series. Grant Thornton's professionals can now conduct tasks in minutes that would have traditionally taken days or weeks, which means clients can enjoy high quality operational insights more quickly and cost-effectively. 'CompliAI is the beginning of Grant Thornton's wider adoption of AI and next generation solutions,' said Jim Peko, CEO of Grant Thornton Advisors LLC. 'We are seamlessly integrating new technology into daily workflows and using it to make data-driven decisions — while also building AI into a range of services that help clients gain a distinct competitive advantage.' Peko adds that: 'The result will be world class service, further establishing us as the provider of choice for clients and professionals alike.' 'This new tool helps our professionals focus more of their time on meaningful engagement with our clients and provides more rapid insights,' said Mike Kempe, chief information officer of Grant Thornton Advisors LLC. 'Our firm is laser focused on giving our people what they need to drive additional value.' "We are pleased to see Grant Thornton's successful rollout of CompliAI,' said Brian Willson, vice president at Microsoft. 'It's a testament to the relationship between Grant Thornton and Microsoft. Grant Thornton's commitment to using Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service is resulting in transformative solutions that increase efficiency, accuracy and value for their clients. This collaboration underscores our shared vision of driving innovation and excellence in the industry." An intelligent AI agent for every professional The CompliAI ™ rollout comes as Grant Thornton is actively expanding its use of AI across the full range of functions at the firm, from audit and assurance services to tax and advisory offerings. Integrating new technology into daily workflows helps Grant Thornton drive more sophisticated, personalized and data-driven decision-making to clients. In May 2025, Accounting Today named Grant Thornton one of its 2025 Best Firms for Technology — citing the 'three tiers of [the firm's] successful technology strategy: application modernization, data centralization and AI integration.' According to Kempe: 'Grant Thornton seeks to seamlessly weave AI into key aspects of our quality-focused service delivery and daily workflows, with platforms like CompliAI serving as an early example. To realize this vision, we are implementing a phased AI maturity model, providing our client service professionals access to AI tools that work with them and enhance their ability to provide proactive insights.' Jeanna Shapiro, chief people and culture officer of Grant Thornton Advisors LLC, emphasized the focus on empowering Grant Thornton's workforce: 'Our people are at the core of our AI strategy. We are dedicated to equipping them with the right tools and training to excel in an AI-driven landscape. By leveraging AI, we help our professionals concentrate on higher-value engagement, foster innovation and deliver superior results for our clients.' In addition to investments in Grant Thornton's own AI infrastructure, the firm continues to invest further in supporting clients with their evaluation and implementation of technology and AI-enabled solutions through its Advisory service line. Tom Puthiyamadam, Grant Thornton's national managing principal for Advisory Services, commented: 'The ever evolving commercial and technology landscape means business leaders need to deploy technology which can unlock new opportunities to drive measurable value as well as make their businesses more resilient. Our technology and AI advisory professionals are well positioned to guide clients along that journey, now with the additional insights from Grant Thornton's own evolution in AI.' The firm's embrace of AI is fueled by its recent growth investment led by New Mountain Capital — and by its recently-created multinational platform, which is expanding to include the U.S., Ireland, the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates, Luxembourg, the Cayman Islands, and other territories. 'We are big believers in the power of people plus technology and are excited to empower Grant Thornton's growth with additional investment in the latest technology and cutting-edge AI solutions for the benefit of clients, partners and staff,' added Andre Moura, managing director at New Mountain Capital. [Watch Grant Thornton's video about CompliAI here.] More on CompliAI ™ CompliAI ™ features a comprehensive suite of tools, including dashboards, task management, in-app commenting, notifications, a methodology document library, and a centralized file repository. These tools enable engagement teams to collaborate more effectively, access critical information faster, and manage projects with greater efficiency. It also automates key tasks such as risk and control rationalization, question and procedure generation, and document request list creation. 'CompliAI embodies the direction Grant Thornton is going, not just for this service, but for many of our offerings,' said Wes Luckock, senior director and Advisory product leader at Grant Thornton Advisors LLC, and one of the co-creators of CompliAI ™. About Grant Thornton Grant Thornton delivers professional services in the US through two specialized entities: Grant Thornton LLP, a licensed, certified public accounting (CPA) firm that provides audit and assurance services ― and Grant Thornton Advisors LLC (not a licensed CPA firm), which exclusively provides non-attest offerings, including tax and advisory services. In January 2025, Grant Thornton formed a multinational, multidisciplinary platform with Grant Thornton Ireland. The platform offers a premier transatlantic advisory and tax practice, as well as independent American and Irish audit practices. In April 2025, Grant Thornton UAE also joined the multinational platform. With $2.7 billion in revenues and more than 50 offices spanning the U.S., Ireland, the UAE and other territories, the platform delivers a singular client experience that includes enhanced solutions and capabilities, backed by powerful technologies and a roster of 12,000 quality-driven professionals enjoying exceptional career-growth opportunities and a distinctive cross-border culture. Grant Thornton is part of the Grant Thornton International Limited network, which provides access to its member firms in more than 150 global markets. Grant Thornton LLP, Grant Thornton Advisors LLC and their respective subsidiaries operate as an alternative practice structure (APS). The APS conforms with applicable laws, regulations and professional standards, including those from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. 'Grant Thornton' refers to the brand under which the member firms in the Grant Thornton International Ltd (GTIL) network provide services to their clients and/or refers to one or more member firms. Grant Thornton LLP and Grant Thornton Advisors LLC serve as the U.S. member firms of the GTIL network. GTIL and its member firms are not a worldwide partnership and all member firms are separate legal entities. Member firms deliver all services; GTIL does not provide services to clients. About New Mountain Capital New Mountain Capital is a New York-based investment firm that emphasizes business building and growth, rather than debt, as it pursues long-term capital appreciation. The firm currently manages private equity, credit and net lease investment strategies with approximately $55 billion in assets under management. New Mountain Capital seeks out what it believes to be the highest quality growth leaders in carefully selected industry sectors and then works intensively with management to build the value of these companies. For more information on New Mountain Capital, please visit
USA Today
13-04-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Ex-Broncos DL Domata Peko is now coaching with Deion Sanders at CU
Ex-Broncos DL Domata Peko is now coaching with Deion Sanders at CU Former Denver Broncos are making their names known across the college football landscape, and one former player made his return to the state of Colorado. Former Broncos defensive lineman Domata Peko has joined Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders' Colorado Buffaloes as a defensive line coach. Peko is one of the latest Broncos to join the coaching ranks, alongside former wide receiver Wes Welker. Peko spent the 2017 and 2018 seasons in orange and blue, starting 30 games and totaling 1.5 sacks, 69 total tackles (44 solo, 25 assisted), two passes defended and recovering one fumble. Peko is the second former Bronco on Sanders' staff, joining former Broncos offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur, who serves in the same capacity for the Buffs. You can watch Peko's introduction to the Buffs locker room below.
Khaleej Times
19-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Sharjah Media City launches new service to empower entrepreneurs
In line with its vision to support a thriving business ecosystem, Sharjah Media City (Shams) has announced the launch of 'Mazeed', a pioneering service designed to empower entrepreneurs and provide integrated solutions for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). 'Mazeed' offers a wide range of tailored services to simplify company formation and expansion, including financial solutions, digital marketing, legal consultancy, and operational services, fostering an environment that promotes innovation and creativity. The launch of Mazeed aligns with Shams' strategy to support entrepreneurs and enhance entrepreneurship in Sharjah and the UAE by providing practical solutions that simplify business management, reduce operational costs, and promote sustainability and growth. Rashid Abdullah Al Obad, Director of Sharjah Media City (Shams), emphasized that 'Mazeed' represents a new step towards enhancing digital innovation in the business environment. He stated, 'Mazeed aims to simplify the journey of entrepreneurs, enabling them to focus on growing their businesses instead of dealing with complex operational procedures. The launch of 'Mazeed' aligns with Sharjah's vision to support a sustainable economy and foster investment while enhancing the customer experience by offering innovative services that effectively meet the needs of the business sector.' Shams also announced strategic partnerships with Aura, Peko, and Qashio, which will provide SMEs with seamless access to essential financial and operational services, ensuring that business owners have the necessary tools to optimize their operations. Through its partnership with Aura, companies will have access to flexible financing solutions, including invoice financing for B2B transactions and installment payment plans for licensing fees. These services offer greater financial flexibility, helping businesses maintain operational stability and drive growth. The partnership with Peko includes a range of essential business services, such as utility bill payments, mobile bill management, flight and hotel bookings, and payroll processing. Additionally, Peko provides digital business tools like WhatsApp for Business and electronic signatures, simplifying business operations for entrepreneurs. Qashio focuses on providing advanced financial management solutions, including expense management, virtual bank account creation, and a rewards system through Qashio Points. The partnership also introduces a revenue-sharing model. As part of its strategy to expand services for entrepreneurs, 'Mazeed' will continue forming new strategic partnerships with leading organizations across various sectors, with upcoming announcements expected soon. These collaborations aim to drive innovation in the business ecosystem and provide cutting-edge solutions that support the sustainability and growth of startups in the UAE.
Arab News
18-03-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Sharjah Media City offers new ‘Mazeed' service for entrepreneurs
SHARJAH: Sharjah Media City, also known as Shams, is offering a new service, called Mazeed, designed to empower entrepreneurs and provide integrated solutions for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises. The new service offers a wide range of tailored options that simplify the formation or expansion of a business, including financial solutions, digital marketing, legal consultancy and operational services, Shams said, to help foster an environment that promotes innovation and creativity in support of a thriving business ecosystem, it added. 'The launch of Mazeed aligns with Shams' strategy to support entrepreneurs and enhance entrepreneurship in Sharjah and the UAE by providing practical solutions that simplify business management, reduce operational costs and promote sustainability and growth,' Shams said. Rashid Abdullah Al-Obad, the director of Shams, said the new service represents a step forward in the enhancement of digital innovation in the business environment. 'Mazeed aims to simplify the journey of entrepreneurs, enabling them to focus on growing their businesses instead of dealing with complex operational procedures,' he added. 'The launch of Mazeed aligns with Sharjah's vision to support a sustainable economy and foster investment while enhancing the customer experience by offering innovative services that effectively meet the needs of the business sector.' Shams also said it has formed strategic partnerships with business-services companies Aura, Peko and Qashio to provide small and medium-sized enterprises with seamless access to essential financial and operational services, to help ensure that business owners have the tools they need to optimize operations. Aura will provide access to flexible financing solutions, including invoice financing for business-to-business transactions and installment payment plans for licensing fees. Such services offer greater financial flexibility, which helps businesses maintain operational stability and drive growth. Through Peko, businesses can access essential business services such as utility bill payments, mobile bill management, flight and hotel bookings and payroll processing. Peko also offers advice on digital business tools, such as WhatsApp for Business and electronic signatures, that can simplify operations. Qashio focuses on advanced financial-management solutions, including expense management, virtual bank account creation, and a rewards system using Qashio Points. The partnership also includes a revenue-sharing model. Shams said Mazeed will continue to form new strategic partnerships in various sectors as part of its strategy to expand the services on offer to entrepreneurs, and more announcements are expected soon. The aim of such collaborations is to drive business innovation and provide cutting-edge solutions that help support the sustainability and growth of startups in the UAE, it added.
Sharjah 24
18-03-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Shams enhances business with MAZEED
A wide range of services "MAZEED" provides a wide range of services specifically designed to facilitate the establishment and expansion of companies, including financial solutions, digital marketing, legal consulting, and operational services, contributing to the creation of a business environment that stimulates innovation and creativity. Supporting entrepreneurs "MAZEED" launch falls within the framework of Shams' strategy to support entrepreneurs and promote entrepreneurship in the Emirate of Sharjah and the UAE in general, by providing practical solutions that help facilitate the management of startups, reduce operating costs, and enhance sustainability and growth. Promoting digital innovation in the business environment His Excellency Rashid Abdullah Al Obaid, Director of Sharjah Media City (Shams), emphasised that "MAZEED" represents a new step towards promoting digital innovation in the business environment. It aims to facilitate the entrepreneurial journey, enabling to focus on growing projects rather than being distracted by complex operational procedures. Al Obaid added that the launch of "MAZEED" aligns with Sharjah's vision to support a sustainable economy and promote investment, and supports efforts to improve customer experience by providing innovative services that effectively meet the needs of the business sector. Enhancing government services Al Obaid explained that "MAZEED" services are in line with Sharjah Customer Experience Improvement Programme, launched by Sharjah Executive Council (SEC). The programme aims to enhance the level of government services provided to individuals and the business sector by adopting a "Customer Experience Policy" that focuses on innovation and providing smart solutions that enhance the operational efficiency of entrepreneurs. Strategic Partnerships to Expand "MAZEED" Services Shams also announced strategic partnerships with Aura, Peko, and Qashio . These partnerships will provide SMEs with easy access to essential financial and operational services, ensuring founders have the tools they need to optimise their business operations. By partnering with Aura, businesses will gain access to flexible financing solutions, such as invoice financing for business-to-business transactions and installment payment plans for license fees, providing greater financial flexibility to maintain operational stability and drive growth. The partnership with Peko includes a range of essential business services, such as utility bill payments, mobile bill management, flight and hotel bookings, and payroll processing, helping businesses manage their day-to-day operations efficiently. Peko also offers digital business tools such as WhatsApp for Business and e-signatures, further streamlining operations for entrepreneurs. Qashio focuses on providing advanced financial management solutions, including expense management, bank account number creation, and a rewards system through Qashio points. The partnership also offers a revenue-sharing model. As part of MAZEED strategy to expand the scope of services provided to entrepreneurs, MAZEED will continue to work on concluding new strategic partnerships with leading entities across various sectors, which will be announced soon. These partnerships aim to foster innovation in the business environment and provide advanced solutions that support the sustainability and growth of startups in the UAE.
