EY at MWC Barcelona 2024

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MWC Barcelona 2024 is one of the most influential, cross-industry, B2B technology events in the world, showcasing the latest and greatest innovations across six key themes: 5G and Beyond, Connecting Everything, Humanising AI, Manufacturing DX, Game Changers and Our Digital DNA.

This year, EY industry and subject matter professionals met with clients and ecosystem partners to discuss a wide range of topics to reimagine what’s possible and realize new opportunities.

EY also introduced EY.ai – a unifying platform that combines our vast experience in strategy, transactions, transformation, risk, assurance and tax, with EY technology platforms and leading-edge capabilities. Learn how EY.ai builds confidence, helps create exponential value and augments potential. Navigate your AI journey at EY.ai.

For the second consecutive year, EY was the headline sponsor of the Diversity4Tech (D4T) program at MWC Barcelona. D4T showcases the technology ecosystem’s collective commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) and the strategic imperatives for areas experiencing accelerated change and widespread impact such as artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability and the overall workforce. D4T brings expert thought leaders together to inspire, connect and share solutions to drive progress for equality, diversity and inclusion across every organization.

EY also sponsored 4YFN’s theme “Age of AI”, featuring panel discussions along with various networking opportunities to connect startups with top industry leaders and innovators at MWC Barcelona. Four Years From Now (4YFN) is the event partner of MWC Barcelona that offers a series of curated programs centered around innovation, and startups in high-growth strategic areas. With over 800 startups participating from 40 countries, 4YFN is one of the world’s most influential global startup events with significant reach across the innovation and technology landscape.

Moving forward, let’s discuss how we can reframe the future within technology-based ecosystems to build a more equitable society, and a more diverse and sustainable, better working world.

EY sessions on stage at MWC Barcelona 2024

Event	Date and Time	Session Information	Location
*MWC* *Panel:* *Will AI Be Unethical Like Humans?*	Monday, February 26, 14:30-15:00 CET	Beatriz Sanz Saiz EY Global Consulting, Data and AI Leader In a world where humans often grapple with ethical dilemmas, the question inevitably arises: Will AI mirror human imperfections? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion session as we delve into the complexities of AI ethics, decode the ethical challenges that need to be considered when building new AI applications. Our debate will examine the role of governments, multistakeholder groups, and academics in shaping the ethics principles that underpin AI’s evolutions, and explore the path to responsible, inclusive, ethical AI development.	Hall 6, MWC Debate Stage
*4YFN Panel:* *AI Unleashed: Big Ideas, Bold Solutions and Bright Futures*	Monday, February 26, 15:00-15:30 CET	Jay Persaud EY Global Leader, Emerging Technology Ecosystem Join us as three notable leaders take the stage to address the latest developments in the fast-moving world of AI and understand how large Corporates are working with AI technology companies to build innovative solutions for themselves and their clients. Led by Jay Persaud, EY Global Leader Emerging Tech Ecosystem, this conversation will highlight what AI technology companies are focused on in 2024, lessons learned in 2023, and how AI technology companies can successfully collaborate with large Corporates.	Hall 8, Agora Stage
*4YFN Panel:* *Bridging the Gap between Social Impact and AI*	Monday, February 26, 15:30-16:00 CET	Gillian Hinde EY Global Corporate Responsibility Leader Tune in for an insightful conversation on how responsible AI plays a significant role in business, helps drive sustainable inclusive growth in our communities, and embeds social and environmental values deeply in society. Led by Gillian Hinde, EY Global Corporate Responsibility Leader, this discussion will explore the many AI opportunities to scale social impact and advance progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals.	Hall 8, Agora Stage
*Welcome Speech for Diversity4Tech Cocktail Reception* *Diversity4Tech Global Mobile “GLOMO” Award*	Monday, February 26, 16:30-18:30 CET	Julie Teigland EY EMEIA Area Managing Partner & Global Leader, Women. Fast Forward Join us at the EY sponsored Diversity4Tech (D4T) networking drinks reception and The Global Mobile (GLOMO) Awards presentation! This reception will kick off the 2024 Diversity4Tech program, offering its most an expanded agenda to offer deep DE&I insights and key best practices. This year’s program extends over three days and brings over 40 senior DE&I leaders who share a wealth of global DE&I expertise and passion for this important topic. GSMA's Lousie Easterbrook (GSMA CFO) and EY’s Julie Teigland (EY EMEIA Area Managing Partner; EY Global Leader, Women. Fast forward) will give welcome remarks and present a GLOMO (Global Mobile) Award, one of the industry’s most prestigious accolade, judged by the sector’s most prominent subject matter experts.	MWC Networking Hub

Event	Date and Time	Session Information	Location
*Diversity4Tech Panel:* *Why diversity in tech is important*	Tuesday, February 27, 09:30-09:40 CET	Errol Gardner EY Vice Chair- Consulting Join our opening session as we shed light on the significance of diversity within the technology industry. This session will explore the various reasons why diversity is crucial for the success and growth of the tech sector. We will discuss how diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences contribute to innovation, problem-solving, and creativity in technology development. The session will also address the challenges and barriers that hinder diversity in tech and propose strategies to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities. Attendees can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the benefits of diversity and learn practical steps to foster a more inclusive tech community.	Hall 6, MWC Debate Stage
*Diversity4Tech Panel:* *How to build a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace*	Tuesday, February 27, 09:40-10:10 CET	Karyn Twaronite EY Global Vice Chair – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusiveness Often going unnoticed, many individuals in underrepresented groups face unique challenges in the workplace. This session will delve into those experiences, perspectives, and the responses of these individuals when confronted with various workplace challenges such as bias, discrimination, and lack of representation. Through insightful discussions, the session will provide attendees with a deeper understanding of the impact these encounters have on underrepresented groups and how individuals navigate and overcome them. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights, strategies, and best practices to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees, fostering diversity and promoting equal opportunities.	Hall 6, MWC Debate Stage
*4YFN Panel:* *Cloud and Connectivity Summit – Unleashing the Potential of a Connected Global Digital Landscape*	Tuesday, February 27, 10:30-11:45 CET	Andrew Lowe EY EMEIA Technology Go-To-Market Leader Join us at the Cloud and Connectivity Summit as we unveil a groundbreaking vision for a connected world. In this session, we will delve into the transformative power of China Telecom's initiatives, encompassing the eSurfing Cloud’s overseas expansion plan, the CTGNet global network capability, and the revolutionary Satellite Communications. Discover how the eSurfing Cloud opens up new horizons by providing access to global resources, capabilities, and applications. Gain insights into the CTGNet global network, which redefines global connectivity, enabling seamless communication across borders. Moreover, witness the future of mobile connectivity as we unveil our innovative 5G NTN Satellite Communications, revolutionizing collaboration and expanding coverage. Through this session, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how China Telecom is reshaping the digital landscape, connecting individuals, businesses, and communities on a global scale. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the limitless possibilities of cloud-driven connectivity and be inspired by its transformative potential for our interconnected future.	Partner Theatre 6
*MWC* *Panel:* *Is Open RAN Living Up To Its Interoperability Promise?*	Tuesday, February 27, 14:30-15:00 CET	Ludvic Baquie EY Global Future Network Now Leader With the benefits of Open RAN being established over the last few years, now should be the ideal time for acceleration but challenges remain in its implementation. One of the main roadblocks being the complexity of managing a multivendor ecosystem; as one of the lauded wins of Open RAN has been reducing vendor lock-in, are we entering a phase of vendor-lock in 2.0, creating a new form of dependence on specific vendors? Or is the promised ‘openness’ and interoperability still a possibility? Join us as we debate these pressing questions and explore strategies aimed at overcoming challenges with Open RAN deployment.	Hall 6, MWC Debate Stage
*EY and Devex – AI for Good Roundtable*	Tuesday, February 27, 14:45-16:30 CET	Beatriz Sanz Saiz EY Global Consulting, Data and AI Leader Gillian Hinde EY Global Corporate Responsibility Leader	EY Booth, Hall 2, 2G40
*4YFN* *Panel:* *AI at the Helm: Transforming Corporate Innovation*	Tuesday, February 27, 16:00-16:30 CET	Sharon Chen EY Global FinTech Adoption Index Lead Author Embark on a journey at the intersection of corporate venture capital, innovation and artificial intelligence, where corporate leaders unravel their strategic investments in AI solutions. Gain exclusive insights into how businesses are channeling their efforts through corporate innovation and venture capital to fuel transformative AI initiatives. Explore the profound impact of AI on businesses, with a special emphasis on the dynamic realm of corporate venture capital, and navigate the evolving landscape of innovation in the age of artificial intelligence.	Hall 8.1, Banco Sabadell Stage
*MWC* *Panel:* *Unleashing the Potential of Neurodiverse Talent*	Tuesday, February 27, 16:30-17:00 CET	Karyn Twaronite EY Global Vice Chair, Diversity, Equity & Inclusiveness Diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) should not be seen as just another tick box exercise, in particular employers need to understand the benefits from the ambition and talent of non-neurotypical workers. Leading experts in this area will discuss ways of creating inclusive work environments that accommodates the diverse needs and abilities of neurodivergent individuals. They will talk about best practices for recruitment, onboarding, and supporting neurodiverse employees, as well as how embracing neurodiversity in the workplace and harnessing the unique strengths of individuals with neurodivergent conditions can have a positive impact on innovation, problem-solving, and overall team performance.	Hall 6, MWC Debate Stage
*Women in Tech Reception and Reverse Networking Panel*	Tuesday, February 27, 16:30-18:00 CET	Hanne Jesca Bax EY EMEIA Managing Partner, Markets & Accounts Grace Bolton EY UK Neurodivesity Community Co-Lead Featuring the next generation of leaders, this panel discussion *‘From deal breakers to deal makers: Hear from GenZ what inclusion, diversity and belonging really means to them’* had panelists from EY, Microsoft, Ericsson and Amaris Consulting share what their generation expects from employers, what they look for when it comes to DEI and belonging in the workplace, and their ideas for attracting, engaging and retaining the talent of the future.	EY Booth, Hall 2, 2G40

Event	Date and Time	Session Information	Location
*Diversity4Tech Panel:* *The Need and the Role for DE&I Champions, Mentors and Sponsors*	Wednesday, February 28, 10:10-10:30 CET	Hiren Shukla EY Global Neurodiversity & Inclusive Value Leader Decisions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) advancements are not a one-person job, it takes a village to make a change! In this session, leaders in the arena will highlight the importance of individuals who actively support and advocate for DE&I initiatives within organizations, delving into the roles of DE&I champions, mentors, and sponsors and the critical role these individuals play in creating a more diverse and inclusive work environment.	Hall 6, MWC Debate Stage
*EY and UNICEF roundtable: Bridging the Digital Divide: Giga Initiative - Connecting Every School to the Internet*	Wednesday, February 28, 10:30-12:00 CET	Jay Persaud EY Global Leader, Emerging Technology Ecosystem Gillian Hinde EY Global Corporate Responsibility Leader	EY Booth, Hall 2, 2G40
*4YFN Panel:* *Can Telcos Harness ESG for Sustainable Growth?*	Wednesday, February 28, 12:00-13:00 CET	Ben Taylor EY Global Market Leader, Climate and Sustainability Business In a world where it’s now recognised that businesses can be a key force for positive societal change, the link between revenue, business growth and sustainability in the mobile industry has become a prevailing topic. GSMA’s recent publication, ESG Metrics for Mobile: insights from early adopters of ESG metrics, highlights important sustainability indicators which could positively impact business and societal outcomes. Engaging in sustainability practices just for the optics will no longer do, as investors and stakeholders want to see the long-term benefits of integrating a clear and well thought out sustainability strategy across the business. Our expert panel will share insights, explore opportunities, and answer your questions about how businesses can meet sustainability targets and still thrive!	Hall 8.1 - 4YFN CC 8-16, GSMA Knowledge Zone
*MWC* *Panel:* *How is Generative AI Changing the Security Landscape?*	Wednesday, February 28, 14:30-15:00 CET	Sean Wessman EY Americas Cyber Practice Leader Alarm bells are ringing in cybersecurity circles and it’s thanks to the remarkable capability in text generation of Generative AI. New security challenges are emerging as cybercriminals continuously experiment with AI technologies to design never-seen-before malware to break into enterprises. The technology created to enhance our lives and business is now being exploited by malicious actors. Join this session as we debate the emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and the AI-based solutions that are changing the security landscape and discuss how Generative AI, when coupled with human expertise, can effectively enable real-time countermeasures against cyber threats.	Hall 6, MWC Debate Stage
*MWC* *Panel:* *Are we ready for Quantum Computing as a Service?*	Wednesday, February 28, 14:45-15:45 CET	Kristin Gilkes EY Global Innovation Quantum Leader Before Quantum-As-A-Service (QaaS) can be offered, we need to explore not only the advancements made in quantum computing technology, but also the challenges that still need to be addressed and visualize the potential of this as a service for businesses and organizations. In this session we will explore topics such as hardware development, software frameworks, and algorithmic advancements, providing insights into the progress made in these areas and how it can be utilized in the future. This session will raise many questions; is there an actual demand for this Quantum-As-A-Service, where and how could it help organisations and is there a readiness of the industry to offer this?	Hall 6, MWC Stage A
*Diversity4Tech Invitation-only Roundtable 2024:* *Lighting the Spark: Become a Catalyst for Change*	Wednesday, February 28, 15:00-17:30 CET	Hiren Shukla EY Global Neurodiversity & Inclusive Value Leader Change is inevitable. It’s how companies grow and improve. It’s why the mobile technology industry evolves every year. And it’s what propels society forward: change exposes us to new ideas, perspectives, and people. By creating spaces for honest dialogue, we can lead others, spark inspiration, and challenge the status quo. But what are the biggest changes on the horizon today? During this interactive session, we will take a step back and reflect on the lessons from 2023, and look ahead at the emerging trends for diversity, equity and inclusion in 2024. Join us in Barcelona for this invitation-only D4T Roundtable as we make the case for collaboration and commitment to DE&I as a core component of strategy that impacts and scales change, enabling organisations and individuals to flourish.	MWC Roundtable Room 2, North Protocol Rooms
*4YFN* *Panel:* *Digital Transformation for Peace Building*	Wednesday, February 28, 15:00-15:30 CET	Lisa Lindström EY Global Innovation and Experience Design Leader We’re the middle of the digital revolution as well as major conflicts, we as leaders need to be aware of global technological issues to make sure data and digital tech can benefit everyone, cause minimal harm and provide solutions. Technology is the main topic in most fields today, and runs across different parts of our lives 24/7, creating an unprecedented dependency for everything. Misinformation is spread intentionally and unintentionally on a massive scale shifting the balances of political power. Today we lack the international legal, institutional structures and public policies to mitigate them, therefore we need a framework to promote good governance now. Citizens need to engage in productive democratic discussions where governments, tech companies, researchers, investors and civil society, convene to ensure peace, security in the digital world and build peaceful solutions.	Hall 8, Agora Stage

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EY team at MWC Barcelona

Andy Baldwin

EY Global Managing Partner – Client Service

Passionate about innovation, FinTech, inclusive growth and geopolitics. Leading media commentator on financial services, economics and investment trends. Keen cyclist.

London, GBR

Hanne Jesca Bax

EY EMEIA Markets & Accounts Leader

Experienced leader blending different cultures, generations, mindsets and genders.

Amsterdam, NLD

Errol Gardner

EY Global Vice Chair – Consulting

Helping clients embrace disruption to drive change. Passionate about inclusion and mentoring. Avid Manchester United fan.

London, GBR

Tom Loozen

EY Global Telecommunications Leader

Fascinated by the positive impact of telecoms. Passionate musician. Enjoys educating himself on psychology, wine, sports, technology, arts and much more. Husband and father of three daughters.

Amsterdam, NLD

Julie Teigland

EY EMEIA Area Managing Partner; EY Global Leader, Women. Fast forward

Passionate about the transformational power of digitalization and innovation and its potential to deliver sustainable, inclusive growth for clients. Prominent voice of the Women20 global agenda.

London, GBR

Karyn Twaronite

EY Global Vice Chair - Diversity, Equity & Inclusiveness

Driver of diversity and inclusiveness programs to provide equitable opportunities and experiences for all. Passionate advocate for creating a sense of belonging.

New York, USA

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.

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EY at MWC Barcelona 2024

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EY sessions on stage at MWC Barcelona 2024

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EY team at MWC Barcelona

Andy Baldwin

Hanne Jesca Bax

Errol Gardner

Tom Loozen

Julie Teigland

Karyn Twaronite

Insights

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Spotlight

Services

Spotlight

Industries

Case studies

Careers

Spotlight

About us

Spotlight

EY at MWC Barcelona 2024

Talk to us

How can you realize the promise of transformational technologies?

EY sessions on stage at MWC Barcelona 2024

Monday, 26 February

Tuesday, 27 February

Wednesday, 28 February

Our latest thinking

EY team at MWC Barcelona

Andy Baldwin

Hanne Jesca Bax

Errol Gardner

Tom Loozen

Julie Teigland

Karyn Twaronite