The Rapid Evolution of Finance and the Role of AI
The finance function is undergoing a significant transformation. What was once a back-office operation focused on bookkeeping and compliance is now evolving into a strategic powerhouse, driven in large part by artificial intelligence (AI). From streamlining month-end close processes to identifying anomalies before they escalate, AI is quickly becoming indispensable in the financial realm.
Companies are increasingly expecting finance leaders to leverage AI—not just for efficiency, but for insight. However, this expectation introduces a new hurdle: most finance departments are not structured or staffed to handle this shift effectively. Talent shortages and outdated training models are limiting many teams’ ability to realize AI’s full potential.
Why an AI Strategy Is Urgent
In today’s high-speed business environment, waiting to implement an AI strategy could lead to falling behind competitors. A finance team without an AI roadmap risks inefficiency, errors, and missed opportunities for strategic growth. That’s why having a clear, actionable AI strategy is no longer optional—it’s essential.
To address this need, Oracle NetSuite and Entrepreneur are hosting a complimentary webinar titled “Why Your Finance Team Needs an AI Strategy, Now.” This event aims to equip finance professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to build a future-ready department.
What Attendees Will Learn
Moderated by Dr. Jill Schiefelbein, a renowned AI strategist and host of the Humanize Automation podcast, the session will feature insights from Rebeca Bichachi, CPA and Product Marketing Director at Oracle NetSuite. Together, they will outline six concrete strategies for empowering finance teams through AI.
Key takeaways from the webinar include:
- Intentional experimentation as a low-risk way to begin AI integration.
- How to broaden your talent pool by recruiting outside of traditional finance roles.
- Techniques to reskill current employees without creating overwhelm.
- Identifying the best areas for AI deployment to maximize time for high-value tasks.
- Recognizing and encouraging AI early adopters within your team.
- Understanding the evolving profile of the “ideal finance candidate.”
This session is designed not just for CFOs, but for any finance leader looking to align AI capabilities with their most valuable asset—their people.
Overcoming Structural and Talent Barriers
One of the biggest obstacles to AI adoption in finance is the current team structure. Many departments are operating with lean staff and limited bandwidth, making it difficult to take on new initiatives. Furthermore, existing employees often lack the technical training needed to work alongside AI tools effectively.
That’s why the webinar emphasizes scalable strategies that can be implemented without requiring a complete organizational overhaul. From shifting hiring criteria to leveraging automation for mundane tasks, the aim is to build a smarter, more adaptive finance function.
Adapting to a New Talent Landscape
As AI changes the nature of financial work, the definition of a qualified candidate is also evolving. No longer is it enough to have a CPA and spreadsheet skills. Today’s ideal finance professional must be data-savvy, tech-literate, and adaptable to change.
The webinar will explore how to identify and nurture such talent, whether through external recruitment or internal development. This includes creating a culture where experimentation is encouraged and continuous learning is the norm.
Register for the Live Webinar
The live webinar, “Why Your Finance Team Needs an AI Strategy, Now,” will take place on Thursday, August 28 at 12 p.m. ET / 9 a.m. PT. Registration is open now and free to all participants. Finance leaders interested in preparing their teams for the AI-powered future are strongly encouraged to attend.
This session promises to deliver actionable insights that go beyond buzzwords and hype. It’s about integrating AI in a way that empowers people, enhances performance, and drives meaningful business outcomes.
Final Thoughts
As AI continues to reshape the finance function, organizations that proactively embrace this shift will enjoy a significant competitive edge. But success in this arena depends not just on technology—it depends on people. By investing in your finance team’s AI readiness, you’re laying the groundwork for long-term success and innovation.
This article is inspired by content from Original Source. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.