For decades, finance has been seen as a support function focused on accounting, accuracy, compliance and reporting. In today’s world that image is getting outdated and finance leaders are being asked to step up and be business partners who help shape strategy and create value. This shift isn't optional. The future of work requires an agile, data-driven, and deeply embedded finance function across the entire business.

The challenge for finance leaders is not just embracing new technologies but equipping their teams to succeed in an environment where adaptability and strategic thinking are as important as accountancy skills.

Developing skills beyond accountancy

Traditional technical knowledge (GAAP, IFRS, tax rules) is still important but not enough anymore. Finance professionals should learn to understand the value flows instead of debits and credits. That means developing skills in data analysis, business modeling and even storytelling.

Why storytelling? Because dashboards and insights from AI are all over the place, the real differentiator is the ability to explain what the numbers actually mean for the business. Finance teams must become translators - taking the complex financial data and turning it into clear, actionable guidance for executives and cross-functional colleagues.

Using technology without losing the human touch

Artificial Intelligence, automation and predictive analytics are no longer science fiction - today, they are transforming the finance function. Automation of routine processes such as reporting, reconciliations, invoice processing & approvals and variance checks is a gift, not a threat.

The finance leaders who win out will be those who place automation as a liberator rather than a disruption. By eliminating repetitive work, AI allows finance teams to concentrate on higher-order activities, such as scenario planning, risk assessment and decision support. But judgment cannot be substituted with technology. Leaders need to train their team to question outputs, challenge assumptions, and apply human intuition in those areas where machines fail.

Developing a business-partner mindset

The days of finance sitting in silos are over. Today’s finance team need to collaborate closely with supply chain, marketing, HR and operations. That requires a change in mindset. Finance professionals must go beyond numbers and engage with business, understand its drivers and even question its assumptions.

Take inventory management for example. Lack of control can tie up working capital, or impact profitability through losses. A finance professional who follows numbers alone will not see the big picture. One who is working with operations and marketing can suggest smarter solutions - whether that's tuning demand forecasts, renegotiating supplier contracts or considering promotions for slow moving stock.

Reskilling for a more strategic role

The future of work in finance is not about additional headcount, but capability. Reskilling programs are important for leaders to invest in to prepare their teams for strategic roles. Training in data science tools, scenario modeling and digital collaboration platforms is a beginning. Developing soft skills is equally important: communication, adaptability, and critical thinking.

Finance leaders also must ensure that they set the tone. If the finance function is seen as merely an expense watchdog, employees will act like compliance officers. Leaders must position finance professionals as a growth partner, so that teams will step up to the challenge and engage more proactively with the business.

My perspective: Finance must lead the way

The future of work in finance is not about additional headcount, but capability. Reskilling programs are important for leaders to invest in to prepare their teams for strategic roles. Training in data science tools, scenario modeling and digital collaboration platforms is a beginning. Developing soft skills is equally important: communication, adaptability, and critical thinking.

Finance leaders also must ensure that they set the tone. If the finance function is seen as merely an expense watchdog, employees will act like compliance officers. Leaders must position finance professionals as a growth partner, so that teams will step up to the challenge and engage more proactively with the business.

My opinion: The future of work is not something that will "happen" to finance - it's something that finance leaders should proactively shape. By providing their people with more comprehensive skills, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and embedding technology without sacrificing human judgment, finance leaders can set their team as value creator.

The companies that will thrive over the next decade won't be the ones that have the most accurate spreadsheets. They will be those with finance teams that can make an impact, contributing to strategies, mitigating risks, and maximizing opportunities.