Redefining CFO Leadership in the Age of AI

What does it take to thrive as a CFO in a world shaped by AI? AI is transforming finance and accounting, bringing both incredible opportunities and new challenges. So, how do we adapt? How do we stay ahead of the curve? And, most importantly, how do we leverage this technology to elevate our work and make a meaningful impact? These are the conversations that are defining the future of our profession.

This is what I spoke to Lisa K. Simon , chief economist at Revelio Labs , about in a recent #FutureReadyLive show. Let’s dig into what AI exposure and adoption means for finance and accounting professionals, and why the human element will remain essential no matter how advanced the technology becomes.

The key takeaways for financial professionals include:

1. Understanding the Difference Between AI Exposure and Adoption

AI exposure is the share of activities within a job that could be automated or augmented by AI. For accounting roles, about 50% of tasks could benefit from AI tools. That includes things like monitoring, analysis and reporting. That’s significant. Yet, adoption rates in our profession remain low.

Why the gap? It’s not surprising. Accountants are cautious by nature, and with good reason. We prioritize accuracy, compliance and security, so we don’t rush into the latest tech trends without fully understanding them. But AI isn’t going away. And if we hesitate too long, we risk being left behind.

2. Shifting Focus from Transactions to Strategy

This isn’t about AI replacing us; it’s about enabling us to do the work that matters most. When AI takes care of repetitive, transactional tasks we get more time to focus on strategic thinking, problem-solving and guiding our organizations. It’s about moving up the value chain, away from manual processes and toward the kinds of insights and decisions that truly make a difference.

3. Adapting to the “Fat Diamond” Model in Accounting

The structure of the accounting profession is changing. Historically, accounting followed a pyramid model, with a large number of entry-level roles forming the foundation and fewer senior positions at the top. However, as AI automates many routine tasks, the need for entry-level roles is decreasing.

Instead, the profession is shifting toward what some describe as a “fat diamond” model, where mid- and senior-level roles take center stage. These roles require advanced skills like strategic thinking, data interpretation and providing advisory insights. This is why upskilling and education are more important than ever.

4. Committing to Lifelong Learning and Upskilling

The next generation of finance leaders will need strategic thinking skills earlier in their careers. We’re already seeing tools like case studies, simulations and mentorship programs accelerate learning and prepare professionals for high-value roles. These approaches give teams the confidence to experiment and grow while preparing them to tackle the challenges of an AI-driven workplace.

5. Leveraging AI to Boost Productivity and Career Growth

Lisa put a fine point on how leveraging AI can benefit both professionals and organizations. For individuals, integrating AI tools into daily workflows can boost productivity. With that comes more career opportunities. After all, if a tool makes you 20% more efficient, that added value is bound to reflect in your career trajectory.

For organizations, AI helps to address talent shortages by enabling teams to accomplish more with fewer resources. As one CFO put it, AI takes over the “soul-sucking” tasks, freeing up valuable time for strategic thinking and creative problem-solving.

6. Addressing AI Challenges as Leadership Opportunities

Of course, AI adoption comes with challenges. Concerns about data security, regulatory compliance and skepticism around AI’s accuracy are valid. But these challenges give CFOs the opportunity to lead the way by collaborating with IT and by providing training to help their teams feel confident using AI tools.

7. Embracing AI to Drive Innovation and Close the Adoption Gap

Lisa shared that as AI adoption grows, the gap between those who embrace it and those who hold back is only going to get wider. The professionals who lean into AI, using it to level up, will be the ones driving innovation, advancing their careers and shaping the future of finance. It’s not just about keeping up — it’s about staying ahead and leading the way.

8. Preparing for the Rise of Autonomous Accounting

To put this into perspective, Gartner predicts that autonomous accounting could become a reality within the next three to five years. But even in a world of high automation, the human role isn’t going anywhere, it’s evolving. CFOs who embrace AI while strengthening critical human skills like trust, judgment, and creativity will be the ones leading this transformation and shaping the future of our profession.

Elevating Finance by Building the Future

This is an exciting moment for our profession. The changes are coming fast, but so are the opportunities. By staying curious, committing to lifelong learning and leveraging the power of AI, we can elevate the role of finance and accounting in ways we’ve never seen before. Together, we’re not just preparing for the future, we’re building it.