Finance transformation is accelerating as organisations grapple with new realities – remote work, heightened expectations for real-time insights, and the increasing complexity of financial operations. The complexities of modern finance, from evolving regulations to technological advancements, mean businesses must adapt swiftly to remain competitive. But successful finance transformation isn’t just about implementing new tools or processes; it’s about aligning people, technology, and strategy to drive sustainable results.
Based on conversations with candidates, clients, and insights from our Finance Market Insights Survey released this month, here are six key trends defining finance transformation in 2025 coupled with quotes from the leadership interviews we publish.
Finance is moving beyond automating basic tasks to transforming end-to-end processes. By embracing predictive modelling, data analytics, and cloud-based ERP systems, finance teams are delivering greater strategic value.
Key Focus Areas:
“Automation isn’t just about cutting costs – it’s about unlocking potential. By automating mundane tasks, finance teams can focus on insights and strategies that drive better business decisions.”
– Iveta Cabajova – Chief Financial and Operations Officer at 1E
As CEOs demand integrated insights, finance teams must step up with real-time information, scenario planning, and actionable recommendations. The shift from traditional finance cycles to agile, on-demand forecasting is key.
Key Priorities:
“Finance should be a driver of decisions, not just a reporter of results. By automating routine tasks and focusing on business partnering, we can transform finance into a proactive force—providing insights, identifying opportunities, and driving real change.”
– Jade Briaux, Finance Director, Experian
Data is the foundation of effective finance transformation. Without high-quality, integrated data, automation and AI initiatives risk delivering subpar results. CFOs are prioritising data governance and investing in platforms to improve data quality.
Key Focus Areas:
“Data precision is critical – bad data flowing into advanced systems won’t create actionable insights. For finance leaders, it’s about treating data as a strategic asset and building governance frameworks that ensure quality and reliability.”
– Tomas Romero, Digital Transformation Leader, AWS
The demand for digitally skilled professionals in finance has never been higher. As traditional rule-based work becomes automated, finance functions are hiring talent with expertise in analytics, storytelling, and digital tools.
Key Priorities:
“The future of finance depends on people who can bridge the gap between numbers and narrative. These ‘finance storytellers’ will be the ones driving change and influencing decisions.”
– Jessica Bier, Workforce Transformation Lead, Deloitte
Self-service tools are transforming how finance teams interact with data. By providing intuitive, proactive insights, these tools empower stakeholders to make faster, data-driven decisions.
Key Developments:
“Self-service tools are evolving from static reports to proactive insights. Imagine being alerted to an opportunity or risk before you even know to ask about it – that’s the future of finance reporting.”
– Jeff Goodwin, Risk and Financial Advisory Partner, Deloitte
The shift to remote and hybrid work has redefined finance operating models. CFOs are leveraging global talent pools, managed services, and cross-functional collaboration tools to create more flexible, efficient teams.
Key Focus Areas:
“Remote work is no longer just an option – it’s a demand from today’s top talent. The challenge for finance leaders today is to create operating models that balance cost efficiencies with collaboration and innovation across their entire workforce.”
– Phil Dye, Co-Founder, The Consultancy Group
If your organisation is navigating challenges in operational efficiency, compliance, or technology adoption, I’d love to discuss how we can help drive meaningful change. I specialise in sourcing a board spectrum of professionals with expertise in Finance and HR transformation projects.