Forvis Mazars Group announces its first Chief AI Officer
In a newly created role, Laurent’s appointment as Chief AI Officer reflects the Group’s continued commitment to integrating valuable artificial intelligence into its wider transformation strategy.
Based in Paris, France, Laurent will be responsible for delivering Forvis Mazars Group’s AI strategy, scaling knowledge and capabilities, and overseeing the firm’s data quality, skills architecture and responsible AI framework. This will support the development, adoption and enhancement of AI across all international service lines.
A homegrown talent with three decades of experience, including 20 years as partner, Laurent has led financial audit, valuations, data and advisory services. He has a track record in transforming intelligence and data into concrete solutions, having worked throughout his career on the assessment and application of emerging technologies to better support client needs.
Congratulating Laurent on his new position, Florence Sardas, Group Chief Transformation Officer, commented: “AI has been embedded in our transformation strategy for many years, helping both our people and our clients navigate change, unlock new opportunities and prepare for what’s next. As we accelerate that journey, Laurent brings the multidisciplinary experience, global perspective and proven leadership to help us harness these technologies in ways that continue to create meaningful value for both our people and our clients. I am delighted to see him take on this position, which will support a co-ordinated and scalable approach to AI that’s fit for the future – keeping quality, trust and sovereignty at the centre of our strategy.”
Commenting on his appointment, Laurent Inard said: "I am honoured to join the Group team and take on the responsibility of shaping our international AI strategy. AI presents a significant opportunity to continue to enhance how we serve our clients, support our people and unlock the full value of the knowledge and expertise that exists across Forvis Mazars. Strengthening the capabilities and governance needed to scale AI responsibly across the organisation will be my absolute priority, while empowering and encouraging innovation. I look forward to working with our teams and partners to continue to deliver tangible, measurable outcomes through AI."
Laurent’s appointment took effect in September 2026 and he will continue his eight-year tenure as Head of R&D in France. This latest announcement follows a series of strategic appointments of new leadership roles, including most recently in the Group’s transformation team, where Rachel Dickson joined as Group Chief Information Officer.
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Press contact
Rosa Mejia Banks, Group PR and Content Officer
Rosa.Mejia-Banks@mazars.co.uk / +44 (0) 20 7063 4934