PwC UK to provide assurance for AI systems

Assurance for AI will empower businesses with trust and confidence in the Age of Intelligent Automation

Today, PwC UK announces the launch of “Assurance for AI”, a set of services to provide independent assurance and other related solutions over artificial intelligence (AI) systems. 

“Assurance for AI” is a suite of services including new formal independent assurance over relevant AI controls. This new offering complements, but is distinct from, our existing advisory services around managing AI risks, controls and governance, and testing and validating AI tools.

It is vital organisations have confidence their AI systems are governed responsibly and compliant with regulation. These services are aimed at helping PwC’s clients meet this growing need to build trust in their AI systems. They will provide confidence that they are designed, deployed, and operated responsibly, transparently, and - in a growing number of situations - aligned with regulatory expectations. By demonstrating this accountability and trustworthiness, organisations can strengthen their position and credibility in the market.

To meet the needs of an evolving risk, regulatory and business landscape, PwC UK’s “Assurance for AI” suite of services will be delivered by multidisciplinary teams that combine deep technical knowledge of AI including machine learning, generative AI and natural language processing with proven expertise in audit, risk management, internal controls, attestation services, and external standards. 

Independent Assurance Services

Responsible AI begins with strong governance. Companies need to set clear frameworks, accountability, and oversight to ensure AI is developed and deployed ethically and transparently. For the first time, PwC is offering formal independent assurance providing clear, evidence-based insights over organisations’ relevant controls surrounding AI systems, in accordance with professional assurance standards issued by recognised standard setting bodies such as the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) and aligned to relevant international frameworks and regulations.   

The new service will not only support organisations in addressing new regulatory requirements, managing third-party risks, and upholding corporate values, but also enable stakeholders to have confidence in how AI-related risks are being effectively managed. 

Marc Bena, Audit Chief Technology Officer, PwC UK commented:

“AI is increasingly becoming core to business innovation and decision-making and client demand is growing. To get the most from AI, organisations need to trust the solutions, the data behind them, and the decisions they drive. Companies are developing proofs of concepts for new AI products but are hesitant about ‘pressing go’ and moving to production. Independent assurance can give organisations the additional confidence they need to take that next step.”

Responsible AI, Testing and Validation Services 

PwC UK has been providing market leading advisory services for years around the deployment of Responsible AI, testing and validation services.  These services include:   

• Assessing governance frameworks and control environments including testing and monitoring procedures to ensure effective oversight and risk management;

• Testing and validating AI performance including the level of accuracy, fairness, explainability and robustness of AI systems;

• Evaluating data sourcing and related management practices to address risks of security or other common data risks; and 

• Analysing insights into how company procedures compare to leading practices and emerging standards and regulations.

PwC’s approach to shaping frameworks and tools for the responsible use of AI focuses on helping its clients navigate complex technical and ethical challenges in ways that are practical, measurable, and aligned with their business objectives.  

Leigh Bates, PwC UK and Global AI Risk Leader, commented:

“AI is transforming business at every level, bringing unprecedented opportunities, but also a critical need for trust. At PwC, we’re leading the next evolution of AI assurance services, combining our deep technical insight with our global assurance expertise to help organisations navigate the complexities of AI responsibly and safely. By championing transparency, fairness, and accountability, we empower our clients to build credible, trustworthy systems and adopt AI with clarity, confidence, and purpose”

For more information please contact:  

Leigh Bates - leigh.bates@pwc.com

Kevin Rollo - kevin.s.rollo@pwc.com

Matt Putt – matt.putt@pwc.com