What drives the modern finance function?

We analyzed insights from top financial leaders.

Here’s what we discovered.

A new era for the Office of the CFO is here.

Finance sits at the crossroads of strategy, operations, technology, and talent. As one Manufacturing CFO put it, “Finance is no longer just reporting results; it is influencing decisions, setting direction, and creating the runway for the business to grow.” CFOs are now expected to accelerate transformation while balancing core operational responsibilities, and navigating the competing demands for execution and innovation.

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Key Findings

89 %

of respondents endorse CFO accountability for AI outcomes in finance.

87 %

finance teams report that 25% or fewer members have formal training in data analytics or AI.

64 %

of organizations report active transformation initiatives, with 80% focusing on automation or AI.

46 %

of organizations describe their operating model as only moderately agile.

First look: Evolution of the finance function.

To navigate this changing landscape, finance leaders must address critical barriers with advanced analytics and AI. Our research uncovers the key factors shaping the modern finance function:

Shifting to Strategy
77% of CFOs are now very involved in strategic decision-making, yet most still spend less than 40% of their time on it.
Embracing AI & Automation
AI is gaining traction in the month-end close (43%) and FP&A (39%), but only 7% of leaders feel very confident interpreting the insights.
Redefining Talent
51% of finance teams have no formal preparation for AI and digital transformation, highlighting a critical skills gap.

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Talk to our Head of AI Innovation about the report results

Tom Alexander

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