@DamienPyne Based on the description - this appears to be a custom tool/function.
> If this is custom, the developer can modify the tool to allow for asynchronous processing to allow focus for other apps.
> If this is out of the box Pro functionality, it will help to know which specific tool (geoprocessing, extension, model builder, or UI elements) are being used. Depending on the specifics it may be possible to configure or customize (through Pro SDK) the desired behavior.
Ayan Palit | Principal Consultant Esri