As artificial intelligence reshapes the global economy, finance professionals must move beyond traditional roles and step into the position of strategic decision makers. This shift fundamentally changes what it means to succeed in the profession and makes adaptability and continuous learning critical. In this new environment, the CGMA qualification offers a pathway not only to remain competitive, but to lead in this new era – says Jakub Bejnarowicz, Regional Director – Europe at CIMA.
This interview explores:
- how AI is reshaping the role of finance professionals
- why adaptability and continuous learning now define success
- where human judgment remains essential in an AI enabled world
- why professional qualifications such as the CGMA qualification matter more than ever
Artificial intelligence is reshaping economies, industries, and professions worldwide at an extraordinary scale. How is it affecting finance professionals?
For finance professionals, this transformation is both a challenge and an opportunity. The question is no longer whether AI will affect finance, but how quickly professionals can adapt to remain relevant and valuable.
In this evolving landscape, the role of finance professionals is being redefined, and qualifications – such as the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) qualification offered by CIMA – are becoming increasingly relevant.
Why is this shift particularly urgent in Poland?
According to the 2026 estimates by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), AI is expected to significantly affect around 60% of jobs in advanced economies and approximately 40% of jobs globally. Drawing on the IMF’s methodology, Polish experts estimated in 2024 that around 5.5 million workers (32%) in Poland are highly exposed to AI, with tasks likely to be automated, while a further 4.6 million people (27%) are in roles where AI exposure is high but largely complementary, meaning they are more likely to benefit from AI rather than be replaced.
These projections are not signals of people becoming obsolete. Instead, they point to a period of profound business transformation – one in which daily tasks, career pathways, and long established assumptions about how expertise is built are being systematically re evaluated.
How is the traditional role of finance changing as automation and AI advance?
Traditionally, finance professionals were custodians of financial data, focused on reporting, compliance, and control. Today, automation and AI are taking over many routine tasks, such as transaction processing, reconciliation, and even aspects of audit which are increasingly handled by intelligent systems. And I would argue that AI is elevating, rather than diminishing, the role of finance.
What is now expected from finance professionals in this new environment?
Finance professionals are increasingly expected to act as strategic partners – interpreting data, providing forward looking insights, and guiding business decisions. This requires a new blend of skills, including digital literacy, data analytics, critical thinking, and business acumen.
Can AI replace the core value that finance professionals bring to organisations?
No. AI tools can generate insights, but they cannot replace human judgment, ethical reasoning, and strategic interpretation. These are areas where professionally trained management accountants continue to stand apart.
Are organisations already demanding AI enabled finance skills?
Yes. Globally and locally, organisations are investing heavily in digital transformation. In Europe, governments are actively promoting AI adoption across sectors such as healthcare, manufacture, agriculture, and finance, alongside initiatives including AI focused education programmes and startup funding. As a result, finance teams are expected to analyse large datasets, support data driven decision making, evaluate investments in technology, and ensure the ethical and responsible use of AI.
Why is talent development so critical to the growth of the digital economy in Europe?
Efforts to drive economic growth and innovation in Europe require a workforce capable of operating in data rich, technology driven environments. The growth of the digital economy is inseparable from investments in people, not just infrastructure and innovation.
How does the CGMA qualification respond to these changes?
The CGMA qualification is designed precisely for this new era of finance. Unlike traditional qualifications that focus primarily on reporting, controls, and compliance, the CGMA qualification prepares professionals for the future of work by integrating strategy, technology, and business insight.
What makes CGMA particularly relevant in the AI era?
CGMA develops strategic thinking and decision making, strong digital and analytical capabilities, effective finance business partnering skills, and a deep understanding of ethics and governance. These areas are essential as AI introduces ethical new challenges, from data privacy to algorithmic bias. The CGMA syllabus prioritises ethics, ensuring professionals can guide responsible decision-making in a technology-driven world.
Is there a risk of a skills gap emerging as AI adoption accelerates?
One of the biggest risks in the AI era is the widening gap between technological advancement and human capability. While investments in infrastructure and innovation are essential, they must be matched by investments in developing people.
What’s more, developing a future-ready workforce requires more than technical training. It demands a holistic approach that combines technical knowledge with strategic thinking and ethical awareness.
This blend of technical and strategic expertise is where professional qualifications play a critical role.
By integrating finance, technology, and business strategy, the CGMA qualification helps bridge the gap between traditional accounting and the demands of the digital economy.
What message would you give to future finance professionals and employers?
For students and early career professionals, the message is clear: the future of finance belongs to those who embrace change and commit to continuous learning. For employers, investing in talent development is no longer optional – it is a strategic imperative. AI will not replace finance professionals but might replace those who fail to adapt.
The CGMA qualification offers a pathway for individuals to not only remain relevant, but to lead in this new era, combining financial expertise with strategic insight, digital fluency, and ethical leadership.
In a tech-driven world, success will belong to those who can turn data into decisions and technology into value. CIMA’s CGMA qualification is equipping the next generation of finance professionals to do exactly that.