Over 70% of financial institutions globally are investing heavily in technology modernisation, from cloud platforms to AI-driven analytics, as they seek to improve efficiency, meet regulatory demands and deliver better customer outcomes.
For finance professionals, the trend is creating a new kind of career path, one that blends traditional accounting expertise with technology, strategy and change management. At the heart of this evolution sits finance transformation: the process of redesigning finance functions to be faster, more efficient, insight-driven and more commercially focused.
The goal is to move finance beyond its traditional remit
Strategic partner
In financial services, transformation is not just about upgrading systems. It’s about redefining the role of finance within the organisation. As Rachel Briggs FCCA, senior manager on the Future Finance Programme (a finance transformation initiative) at Prudential in Hong Kong, explains, the goal is to move finance beyond its traditional remit.
‘Finance transformation underpins better decision-making, efficiency and long-term value creation. It enables finance to move from a retrospective reporting function to a forward-looking strategic partner,’ she says.
Briggs works at the intersection of finance, technology and delivery, supporting large-scale transformation programmes across Asia and Africa. Her role highlights how finance professionals are increasingly involved in shaping how organisations operate, rather than simply reporting on performance.
Evolving career landscape
Finance transformation roles are diverse, reflecting the complexity of modern financial services organisations. Typical career paths include:
- programme and project management: overseeing large transformation initiatives, ensuring delivery stays aligned with strategic objectives, timelines and budgets
- operating model design: redefining how finance functions are structured, including processes, systems and people
- finance systems and data: working on ERP implementations, data architecture and analytics platforms
- business partnering and change delivery: supporting stakeholders across the business to adopt new ways of working and embed change.
Briggs’s own role spans several of these areas. ‘A large part of the role is translating strategy into practical, actionable plans, and ensuring change is delivered in a controlled, sustainable way,’ she explains.
Skills that define success
As finance transformation blends multiple disciplines, employers look for a mix of technical expertise and softer capabilities.
A strong grounding in finance fundamentals remains essential. Experience in financial reporting, planning and analysis, or audit provides the credibility needed to influence senior stakeholders.
‘You need to understand how finance processes, data and platforms fit together’
However, technical knowledge alone is no longer enough. Increasingly, professionals must understand how finance processes connect with systems and data. ‘You don’t need to be a technologist,’ Briggs says, ‘but you do need to understand how finance processes, data and platforms fit together.’
Soft skills are equally critical. Transformation programmes often span multiple geographies and functions, requiring:
- stakeholder management: working with finance leaders, IT teams and external partners
- communication: translating complex concepts into clear, actionable insights
- resilience: managing long, often non-linear change processes
- curiosity and critical thinking: navigating ambiguity and identifying opportunities.
Such capabilities enable professionals to operate effectively in environments where change is constant and complexity is high.
Experience and entry routes
There is no single route into finance transformation, and that is one of its strengths. Many professionals begin in traditional accounting roles before moving into projects, systems or change-focused positions.
Briggs’s own career reflects this progression. With a background in accounting and finance, she gained experience in transformation and process improvement before relocating to Hong Kong and moving into a global role.
‘You need to be able to operate in ambiguity’
‘Employers in this space tend to look for finance professionals who are comfortable working beyond traditional accounting roles,’ she says, ‘people who understand the end-to-end finance lifecycle but can also operate in ambiguity, work across functions and manage stakeholders at all levels.’
Exposure to systems implementation, large-scale programmes or cross-functional projects can be particularly valuable. International experience, while not essential, can also open doors in global organisations.
Qualifications that open doors
Professional qualifications such as ACCA provide a strong foundation for careers in finance transformation. The qualification’s breadth – covering reporting, governance, performance management and strategy – aligns well with the demands of transformation roles.
‘ACCA provides a strong technical foundation, credibility and a common language when working with finance leaders globally,’ Briggs says, stressing the value of its resources and networks for moves into broader roles.
In addition, certifications in project management (such as Prince2 or PMP), data analytics or digital finance can enhance employability, particularly for roles focused on delivery and systems.
Career progression
One of the most attractive aspects of finance transformation is the range of progression opportunities it offers. Professionals can move into senior finance leadership roles, such as finance director or CFO, bringing with them a deep understanding of how modern finance functions operate.
Alternatively, many transition into:
- strategy and transformation leadership roles
- programme director or project management office leadership positions
- consulting and advisory roles
- operational or business leadership roles outside finance.
‘The skills developed include leadership and change delivery’
As Briggs explains: ‘The skills developed – commercial thinking, leadership, change delivery and stakeholder management – are valuable across industries.’
A global, future-focused career
Finance transformation in financial services offers a unique combination of scale, complexity and impact. Programmes often span regions, regulatory environments and business lines, providing exposure to diverse challenges and opportunities.
For professionals willing to embrace change, develop new skills and step beyond traditional accounting roles, the sector offers a dynamic and rewarding career path.
As financial institutions continue to evolve, the demand for finance professionals who can bridge the gap between numbers, technology and strategy will only increase. In this context, specialising in finance transformation is not just a career choice, it’s a way to stay at the forefront of a rapidly evolving profession.
More information
Visit the ACCA Careers website for news and advice on your next career move
