Simplyai launches new AI innovation hub for Microsoft technologies
Automation and artificial intelligence consultancy Simplyai has launched a new AI innovation hub, Simplyai Catalyst, which will leverage Microsoft’s suite of advanced technologies.
The new initiative will be led by former CEO John Valastro, who joined the firm in 2023 and now transitions to managing partner of Simplyai Catalyst, while AI strategy & transformation expert Tim Barnes has also been recruited from ANZ bank to provide further leadership support.
Pointing to the almost $4 trillion in global value expected to be generated through enterprise AI by 2026, Simplyai said the innovation hub was designed to support businesses modernise their operations, enhance decision-making, and unlock new growth opportunities by navigating AI’s rapid evolution and capitalising on its promise.
“Simplyai Catalyst marks a defining moment in our commitment to pioneering AI-driven business solutions,” said Simplyai managing director Jason Catania. “With John and Tim’s leadership and our strategic alignment with Microsoft, Simplyai Catalyst is uniquely positioned to help enterprises unlock AI’s full potential and thrive in an increasingly digital and automated world.”
Simplyai Catalyst will focus on co-creating tailored solutions on Microsoft platforms such as CoreAI, CoPilot, and Power Apps and offer industry-specific AI accelerators for a number of sectors including financial services, government, retail and telecommunications. The firm said it would also roll out new solutions and strategic partnerships in the coming months.
Added to the board following the consultancy’s purchase by private equity firm Liverpool Partners, Valastro has now been tasked with leading the integration of Microsoft’s AI ecosystem with Simplyai’s industry-specific expertise, while Barnes comes on board from his most recent post as AI enablement lead at ANZ, before which he also held senior positions at Telstra, Optus, and AAPT.
Headquartered in Sydney with additional outlets in Melbourne and Perth, Simplyai has a headcount of around 100 consultants and technicians, generating revenues upwards of $30 million.
Former KPMG partner and Accenture managing director James Scott serves as Simplyai's executive chairman, alongside his role as chair of portfolio sister company Seisma.
