Top finance skills

Top finance skills

In todayโ€™s complex, nonlinear, and constantly changing business environment, itโ€™s no longer possible for finance and accounting professionals to rely on existing skillsets. The rules of engagement have changed.

How can finance teams not just support but help develop strategy? How can automation be adopted and scaled to increase speed and success? What does the groundswell of interest in ESG mean to accountants? How can the finance function facilitate collaboration and good data governance? To be part of positive change and growth in organisations, what are the essential skills for the coming years?

In this series, we interview CFOs, finance directors, and other leaders from around the world to find out what skills are at the top of their minds. They said foundational finance skills will always be relevant, but other important competencies include machine learning, data analytics, Power BI, managing a remote team, empathy and listening skills, and connecting the dots. Published twice weekly, these interviews will give you a sense of what skills to develop for the future.

To receive weekly updates on this series, sign up for our CGMA Advantage newsletter. Visit the Global Career Hub from AICPA & CIMA for help with finding a job or recruiting.


Innovation drives investor confidence in Asia

Optimism for foreign direct investment in emerging markets modestly improved year over year. Asia stands supreme on the list of top-ranked markets for investment for the first time in over a decade.

IPSASB looks to augment financial statement presentation

The board seeks input on plans to develop a new standard in lieu of IPSAS 1 to enhance how financial information is presented in the public sector.

Futureโ€‘ready finance leader: From preparation to performance

Digital fluency is one vital skill for finance leaders to master as they lead through uncertainty, a global report said.

IPSASB proposes narrow-scope amendments to reflect updated guidance

The board proposed minor amendments to definitions and classifications in IPSAS standards to reflect relevant updates in the private sector.

A China milestone and CGMA designation awards in Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe

CIMA, alongside business and academic leaders in China, celebrates ten years of advancing the profession and moves to prepare for the future of finance.

UK job market shows signs of stabilising, report says

UK hiring declined slightly in March as employers remain cautious, according to a monthly survey of recruitment consultancies by KPMG UK and the Recruitment and Employment Confederation.

Gender parity plateaus, but some organisations remain steadfast on diversity

Some leaders in a Grant Thornton report tie executive diversity to increased innovation, better decision-making, and improved financial performance.

Executive turnover slows, but AI strategy remains unclear

A global survey shows that executives arenโ€™t changing jobs nearly as often as they did a year ago, but many are seeking better internal support for strategic objectives built around artificial intelligence.

Despite global job insecurity, some young workers are upbeat

Fewer than one in four employees are confident their current job is safe, according to a global survey. Worker engagement is tied to development opportunities, which are inconsistent across age groups.

CIMA roundup: Global talent development in focus

Three recent announcements highlight global collaboration related to the development of finance talent and recognition of the CGMA designation.