Endava's Global Advisory Board: A High-Stakes Gamble on AI's Future

On June 19, 2025, Endava PLC (EVGA) took a bold step toward cementing its role as a leader in AI-driven enterprise transformation by unveiling its newly formed Global Advisory Board. Comprising 12 industry veterans from finance, logistics, data science, and international relations, the board signals Endava's ambition to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and real-world business outcomes. But as the company's stock hovers near a 52-week low, investors are left to wonder: Can this group of luminaries turn Endava's AI strategy into a sustainable competitive advantage?

The advisory board's star power is undeniable. Chaired by Alastair Lukies CBE, former CEO of Lloyds Banking Group, and co-chaired by Dame Alison Rose, former CEO of NatWest Group, the group includes Lord Christopher Holmes of Richmond MBE (House of Lords), Dr. Orlando Machado (ex-LEGO Group CDO), and tech investor Sam Balaji (ex-Deloitte Consulting CEO). This cross-industry roster aims to guide Endava's AI initiatives across sectors like healthcare, retail, and financial services.

The board's mandate aligns with Endava's “AI-native” vision, which emphasizes embedding AI into every stage of client projects—from ideation to deployment. This approach, the company argues, allows it to outpace rivals like Accenture and IBM by tailoring solutions to niche markets. For instance, partnerships such as its collaboration with AlixPartners aim to deliver AI-powered risk mitigation and digital transformation services.

Yet challenges loom large. Despite $1.1 billion in annual revenue as of March 2025, Endava's stock price has been battered by skepticism over its ability to deliver near-term growth. shows a decline of nearly 20%, reflecting investor anxiety about execution. Analysts highlight two critical hurdles: the global AI talent shortage and the need to prove tangible ROI for clients.

The advisory board's five-year charter will hinge on addressing these concerns. For example, its members' deep sector expertise could help Endava attract top-tier AI talent through strategic partnerships or upskilling programs. Meanwhile, Dame Alison Rose's banking background and Dr. Machado's data science experience may accelerate the development of client-specific AI tools, such as predictive analytics for supply chains or fraud detection systems.

However, competition remains fierce. Giants like IBM and Accenture have decades of enterprise client relationships, while newer entrants like Palantir and Snowflake are carving out AI niches. Endava's smaller scale—11,365 employees as of March 2025—could be both an advantage (agility) and a liability (limited resources).

Investors should weigh these factors carefully. On one hand, the Global Advisory Board's formation suggests Endava is doubling down on its AI-native thesis at a critical juncture. Its cross-sector expertise could yield breakthroughs in vertical-specific solutions, which are increasingly in demand. On the other hand, the company must prove it can scale these initiatives without overextending.

For now, Endava's stock remains a gamble. Bulls may see the advisory board as a long-term catalyst for differentiation, while bears will demand clearer evidence of ROI and talent retention. Until then, the wisest course is to monitor developments closely. Investors with a multi-year horizon might consider a small position, but those focused on short-term gains should tread cautiously.

The verdict? Endava's bet on AI leadership is audacious and necessary—but success will require more than star power. It demands execution, patience, and a little luck.