Future Connect Members Explore the AI Revolution in Finance
Key Contact
Karolina Pilcher › Senior Strategy and Research Manager, Jersey Finance
email › / profile ›
Jersey Finance’s Future Connect event series continued this week with a thought-provoking session titled ‘The AI Revolution – What it Means for Finance and Your Career’, delivered by James Faure, Founder & CEO of Clairo AI. Held as part of Jersey Finance’s ongoing commitment to equip our industry’s future with essential skills, the event offered practical insights into how artificial intelligence – particularly Generative AI – is reshaping the financial services landscape.
James Faure | Founder & CEO | Clairo AI
I started my AI journey as an engineer working on a medical image diagnostics systems using computer vision models. The impact on public health in South Africa was immense. I realised that AI was going to change the world, and I wanted to be part of it. Since then, I have worked as a data scientist in London, and most recently started Clairo AI, a company building autonomous AI Agents for deep research in Enterprises. AI is not something to be afraid of, but rather something to be embraced. My mission is to make sure AI is safe and responsible, and accessible for everyone.
AI adoption is as much about culture as it is about technology. AI readiness is 10% technology, 20% data and 70% people and processes. Firms need to invest in upskilling staff in prompt engineering - the art of getting the most out of AI tools.
Founder & CEO, Clairo AI
Kicking off the session, James introduced the concept of ‘the second bounce of the ball’ – a metaphor for looking past the immediate buzz around AI to understand its longer-term impact. He explained that tools like ChatGPT represent just the first phase of AI adoption, where users interact with models through simple prompts. While powerful, these tools only scratch the surface of AI’s potential.
The second bounce, is the rise of autonomous AI agents – systems that can carry out complex, multi-step tasks with minimal human input. These agents are set to transform industries like finance by operating proactively: accessing data, generating insights and taking actions within defined parameters. By anticipating this next evolution, professionals can better prepare to harness AI not just as a tool, but as a strategic partner in driving innovation and efficiency.
Key Takeaways on AI’s Impact in Finance
James shared insights from his career journey – from building AI systems in South African hospitals to launching Clairo AI in the UK.
Attendees were walked through a brief timeline of Generative AI, charting the rise of large language models (LLMs) in 2018 to the launch of accessible tools like ChatGPT in 2022 and now the emergence of AI agents in 2025.
James explained the concept of Agentic AI, which combines knowledge, intelligence, personas and actions to create systems that act independently. These AI agents can access data, make decisions and communicate with users.
With many firms hesitant to embrace AI due to data privacy concerns, James stressed the importance of secure, private AI systems. He advocated for compliance with international standards that align with global best practices.
James wrapped up with a call to action: 'Start your AI journey. It won’t happen overnight.' He encouraged attendees to experiment with tools, build prototypes and involve teams in the AI conversation. Those who do will be best positioned to thrive.
‘The AI Revolution – What it Means for Finance and Your Career’ was a valuable opportunity for Future Connect Members to learn more about the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence in financial services. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of how AI will shape their careers and how they can actively prepare for the changes ahead.
Our Future Connect network continues to offer young professionals in Jersey’s finance industry access to engaging learning and development opportunities throughout the year. Stay tuned for upcoming events designed to support your growth, build your skillset and connect you with peers across the industry.
Find out moreWord Cloud Generated From Q&A Session
Event Photos
Thank You to our Event Series Sponsor
Grant Thornton Limited is a leading Channel Islands practice with offices in Guernsey and Jersey with a combined staffing strength of over 250 people. We are the Channel Island member of Grant Thornton International, one of the world’s leading international organisations of independently owned and managed accounting and consulting firms.
We have been offering practical and strategic advice to all the key sectors in the Channel Islands for many years, and work closely with our clients to understand the specific issues that they face, evidenced by the many long-standing client relationships that we have developed.
Connect with Grant Thornton:
