Today, accounting and accountability go hand in hand.
The emergent environment for finance leaders in Australia is increasingly characterised by a need for adaptability and integrity amidst a rapidly changing economic landscape. With rising interest rates, inflationary pressures, global market volatility, and increased expectations around environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting, finance leaders must navigate a complex array of challenges while maintaining financial stability and strategic growth. Skills trends for finance leaders see a shift towards digitisation and the adoption of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence. They are now expected not only to manage financial performance but also to drive data insights and sustainability across their organisations. This requires a proactive approach to risk management, where traditional financial metrics are augmented with data-driven modelling and scenario planning.
Additionally, regulatory changes and increased scrutiny of corporate governance are shaping the responsibilities of finance leaders. The recent updates to Australia’s Work Health and Safety Act, along with the broader Fair Work Legislation, exemplify the growing emphasis on compliance and ethical standards. Finance leaders must ensure that their organisations not only meet these regulatory requirements but also embed them into their broader corporate strategy. As stakeholders demand greater transparency and accountability, finance leaders are increasingly involved in ESG initiatives, requiring them to balance financial objectives with long-term sustainability goals. This evolving landscape calls for finance leaders who are not only technically proficient but also strategic thinkers capable of leading their organisations through uncertainty and change.
What trends are dominating the emerging environment in finance?
What data tell us about the skills finance leaders should build for the future.
Financial Operations - 95% increase
Financial operations encompass the management and oversight of a company's financial activities to ensure efficient use of resources, accurate financial reporting, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Financial Controlling - 87% increase
Financial controlling involves the processes and activities that ensure a company's financial resources are effectively managed and utilized to achieve its strategic objectives.
Budgeting and Forecasting - 48% increase
Establishing budgets and forecasts to guide financial planning and resource allocation. This process helps in setting financial targets and predicting future financial conditions.
Business Analytics - 48% increase
Business Analytics is the practice of using data, statistical analysis, and quantitative methods to make informed business decisions. It involves transforming data into actionable insights that can improve business performance.
Quantitative Finance - 42% increase
Qualitative Finance involves the use of non-numerical data and subjective judgement to analyse financial markets, investment opportunities, and economic conditions. This skill focuses on understanding the qualitative aspects of finance, such as company management, brand-strength, market sentiment, and industry trends.
Functional specialisations
Our Talent Hub team work in partnership with our search consultants, to leverage their deep sector knowledge, and overlay value with an dynamic understanding of functional nuances and expertise.
The leadership capabilities of tomorrow are uniquely human.
The urgency to cultivate leadership capabilities alongside technical skills, especially among emerging leaders, cannot be overstated.
