CEO Julie Sweet says Accenture is hiring additional entry-level positions worldwide
Accenture is ramping up hiring for entry-level roles across global markets, countering concerns that artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly reduce opportunities for junior professionals. Chief executive Julie Sweet said the company plans to recruit more fresh graduates this year than it did last year, emphasising that early-career talent is well-suited for an AI-driven workplace.
Speaking on the Rapid Response podcast hosted by Bob Safian, Sweet highlighted that recent college graduates often possess stronger AI fluency compared to employees with a few years of experience, as they are already using such technologies regularly. She noted that this familiarity gives them a significant advantage as organisations transition toward AI-first operations.
Rather than eliminating jobs, Accenture is redesigning roles within the company to align with evolving technological demands. The firm has been “reconstituting” positions by removing tasks that can be automated and placing greater emphasis on human-centric skills such as communication, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. Sweet stressed that entry-level jobs remain essential for building the future workforce and ensuring long-term talent development.
To support this shift, Accenture has revamped its training programmes for new hires, combining AI-related skills with a stronger focus on business communication and critical thinking. The company is also investing in leadership development, recognising that executives—not just engineers—must understand how AI transforms workflows and decision-making processes.
Sweet, who became CEO in 2019 and later assumed the role of chair in 2021, said that becoming an AI-first organisation requires a fundamental change in mindset. Leaders must actively question whether tasks can be performed by AI rather than relying on traditional methods of working.
On the business front, Accenture noted that successful AI adoption goes beyond deploying advanced models. According to Sweet, companies must first streamline fragmented processes and standardise operations before layering AI solutions on top to unlock meaningful value.
The company has seen strong traction in its AI business. In the first quarter of FY26, Accenture recorded $2.2 billion in advanced AI bookings, reflecting a year-on-year growth of roughly 76–83%, while AI-related revenues rose about 120% to $1.1 billion. For FY25 to date, the firm has secured $11.5 billion in AI-related work across approximately 11,000 projects, generating $4.8 billion in revenue.
Financially, Accenture reported quarterly revenue of $18.7 billion, up 5% year-on-year in constant currency terms, exceeding market expectations. The company maintained its FY26 revenue growth guidance at 2–5% in constant currency, excluding a 1% drag from its US federal business and including contributions from acquisitions.
Consulting revenues grew 3% year-on-year, while managed services rose 7%, indicating sustained momentum in outsourcing-led deals. Among industry verticals, financial services led growth with a 12% year-on-year increase, underlining continued demand in key sectors even as the broader IT services industry navigates a gradual transition toward AI-led transformation.
