By Ross Levine, Managing Partner, Head of Accounting & Finance
AI, automation, and data analytics are changing what employers expect from accounting and finance professionals. These roles are no longer just about understanding the numbers. Professionals must also understand the systems and data behind them.
Across financial services, I am seeing this shift in Accounting, Corporate Finance, Internal Audit, Risk, Regulatory Reporting, and Finance Transformation. Employers do not expect every candidate to be a software engineer, but they increasingly value professionals who can operate across functions.
Build practical technology skills
Tools such as SQL, Python, and Alteryx are becoming increasingly valuable. Professionals who can analyze data, identify trends, and turn information into meaningful insights can contribute beyond their traditional responsibilities.
In my conversations with CFOs and other C level executives across financial services, I consistently hear that the professionals who advance are those willing to adapt and proactively incorporate new tools into their existing roles.
You do not need another degree or a complete career change. Start by finding practical ways to use data, automation, and AI to improve the work you already perform.
Use AI without becoming dependent on it
AI tools can automate parts of a workflow, improve efficiency, and strengthen analysis. However, AI should support your knowledge, not replace it.
We are already seeing candidates struggle in interviews or new positions because they have become too dependent on AI. Employers want professionals who understand how the work is completed, can explain their thought process, and know when an AI generated result requires further review.
Understand the broader business
Deep functional expertise remains important, but future leaders must also understand the business challenges their work helps solve. The ability to interpret data, evaluate its impact, and communicate insights to different stakeholders is becoming just as valuable as technical knowledge.
Demonstrate the full process
During an interview, explain your work from start to finish. Discuss the business challenge, your responsibilities, the tools you used, and the outcome you delivered.
The strongest candidates establish themselves as subject matter experts while demonstrating curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to execute. They understand the business problem and can use technology to solve it more effectively.
Finance and technology will continue to converge. You do not need to become an AI expert overnight. By combining financial expertise, business judgment, and technology fluency, you can build cross-functional value and position yourself for future opportunities.
Ready to build greater cross-functional career value?
Madison-Davis helps professionals understand evolving employer expectations and connect their experience with the right opportunities. Connect with our team today to take the next step in your career.
