Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the finance function. From automation and analytics to smarter decision-making, AI is influencing how finance teams operate and the skills they need to succeed. For CFOs and hiring managers, building AI capability is no longer optional; it’s essential.
In this article, we explore how finance professionals can upskill in AI, and how leaders can guide their teams to remain adaptable, strategic, and future-ready.
Why AI skills matter in finance today
AI is already embedded in many finance operations, from streamlining reporting to driving predictive analytics. Here’s why building AI capability should be a key priority:
- AI-powered tools are driving transformation: AI enhances financial planning, compliance, and reporting by turning complex data into actionable insights. These tools help forecast trends, identify risks, and improve decision-making. Read more in Forbes.
- Growing demand from employers: While organisations may not always ask directly for “AI skills,” the demand for advanced financial modelling, revenue forecasting, and data-driven insights is rising—areas where AI can have a powerful impact.
- Staying competitive requires AI literacy: A 2024 Bain & Co survey found that 38% of finance businesses are already developing or deploying generative AI. Teams that lack foundational AI skills risk falling behind.
“Our clients haven’t been specifically asking for AI skills. However, they do look for strong skillsets in data analysis, financial modelling and forecasting revenues, areas where AI can make a big difference,” explains Helen Pretious, Manager of Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim). “Many are looking to automate routine processes like bookkeeping and are keen to understand how AI can assist them.”
Top 5 AI skills for finance professionals in 2025
To thrive in this evolving landscape, finance professionals need to focus on five key areas:
- AI literacy and tool familiarity: Understanding tools like Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, and other generative AI platforms is now a core skill. These tools can automate reporting, analyse financial statements, and reduce the manual work involved in compliance reporting.
- Data interpretation and storytelling: AI can surface insights, but it is finance professionals who must translate them into clear business narratives. “Candidates today must be able to analyse data to provide meaningful insights. Those who can use AI to enhance this analysis will benefit,” says Helen
- Automation and process optimisation: Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is reducing manual work in areas like data entry, reconciliation, and reporting. Understanding these tools helps boost efficiency and free up time for higher-value tasks.
- Ethical AI use and data privacy: AI must be used responsibly. Awareness of bias, governance, and data protection is essential to build trust and ensure compliance.
- Cross-functional collaboration: AI initiatives are most successful when tech and finance teams work together. Deloitte highlights the importance of cross-functional collaboration in delivering effective AI solutions.
How CFOs and hiring managers can build AI capability
For finance leaders, the focus should be on integrating AI learning into broader professional development strategies.
- Embed AI training into existing learning pathways: Assign AI champions, tailor training to different roles, and link learning to business objectives to create buy-in. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Encourage experimentation and curiosity: Cultivate a culture where teams can test and explore new tools in a safe, supported environment.
- Hire for adaptability, not just technical skills: “The ability to use AI to transform processes and automate bookkeeping and reporting will set those apart from candidates who continue to use the same manual methods,” Helen notes. “That kind of forward-thinking mindset is what hiring managers are looking for.”
How finance professionals can build AI confidence
If you are a finance professional looking to stay ahead, here are a few ways to build confidence in using AI:
- Upskill online: Explore platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or edX for accessible courses on AI in finance.
- Learn by doing: Get involved in cross-functional digital projects to apply learning in real-world contexts.
- Ask questions: For example, how is AI being used in my organisation? Where are the skill gaps?
- Stay curious: Continuous learning is the key to staying relevant.
Looking ahead: AI as a strategic enabler
AI is not replacing finance professionals—it’s changing the nature of their work. Roles are evolving with a greater emphasis on strategic thinking, insight generation, and value creation.
“AI can generate real-time financial reports, automate compliance reporting, and help finance teams deliver more accurate and timely outputs,” says Helen. “It’s about improving — not replacing — the work we do.”
As Jeff Pedowitz writes in Forbes: “Those who embrace AI will have a competitive edge in tomorrow’s workforce.”
Investing in AI capability today is an investment in resilience, performance, and future leadership.
Moir Group is a specialist finance, accounting and ESG recruitment company. We cover temporary and permanent roles from Assistant Accountant to CFO level. We also recruit Sustainability and ESG Accountant positions across all industry sectors.
If you have any recruitment needs in your team on a permanent or a temporary basis, we would be delighted to assist. Contact us here.