From economic opportunities, to risk and the need for ethical leadership, uncover how AI is transforming the profession, and what you need to stay at the forefront of the AI-driven future

 

AI is fundamentally reshaping the accounting and finance profession. Understanding its implications and harnessing its true potential is critical for business surival.

 

The theme of our half-day AI conference is Landing the AI opportunity. Join us as we delve into the following key topics that will equip you with the skills and insights needed to navigate this transformative era with confidence:

Join ACCA’s chief economist, Jonathan Ashworth, for a compelling conversation with 2024 Nobel prize-winning economist Simon Johnson. In this exclusive webinar, they’ll delve into the transformative power of artificial intelligence and its far-reaching implications for the global economy. Discover how AI could reshape work, drive (or disrupt) economic growth, redefine productivity, and influence employment and inequality across industries. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear first-hand insights from one of the world’s leading economic minds.

 

Is AI truly revolutionary – or are we being swept up in hype? Join Arvind Narayanan, renowned professor of computer science and director of the Center for Information Policy at Princeton University, as he makes the case for seeing AI as a ‘normal technology’ – powerful, but not magical. Following a thought-provoking short presentation, ACCA’s head of technology research will join Professor Narayanan for a deep dive into the realities of AI innovation: where are we really in terms of progress? How can we separate genuine breakthroughs from smoke and mirrors? And what is AI’s actual transformative potential for business and society? This session is essential for leaders who want to cut through the noise and engage in smarter, sharper discussions about AI – helping their organisations invest wisely and avoid chasing the next illusion.

 

As AI becomes more embedded in business processes, organisations are under pressure to understand the very real risks AI can bring. For finance and accounting professionals, this means stepping up as both users and guardians, identifying and managing AI risks, while fostering a culture of informed, collaborative risk management. In this timely panel discussion, members of ACCA's Risk and Technology Forums will explore the evolving landscape of AI risk and how it impacts decision-making, accountability and governance. You'll gain insights into practical scenarios, key risk factors, and how finance leaders can help their organisations exercise sound judgment while embracing innovation responsibly.

 

AI presents both powerful opportunities and complex ethical challenges. This webinar will explore how finance professionals can navigate key risks like bias, lack of transparency and overreliance on automation, while maintaining trust and professional integrity. We’ll discuss how to ensure AI systems remain accountable, auditable and aligned with ethical standards, and share best practices for responsible use. Finally, we’ll look ahead to what the future holds: evolving regulations, the need for new skills, and how the profession can lead responsibly in an AI-driven world.

 

What distinguishes leaders who successfully drive AI transformation? Join us as our expert panellists dissect the leadership components that matter and discuss how to balance governance with innovation, navigate adoption challenges, and create cultures where AI initiatives flourish. Examine the leadership mindsets and skills needed to guide organisations through AI transformation.

 

As artificial intelligence (AI) scales across the economy, the ability to trust what it says is not just important — it’s vital for the public interest. Business leaders, policymakers, academics and citizens are beginning to unlock AI’s transformational opportunities. At the same time, they are also grappling with how to manage AI’s complexities and considerable risks. AI assessments are at times referred to as ‘AI audits’ or ‘AI assurance’. These assessments can help companies build and use AI systems that are well-governed, that comply with applicable laws and regulations, and that meet certain performance standards. This session will help leaders – at any level in their organisation – to understand what AI assessments are, the current landscape, challenges, and key considerations for the future. It is essential viewing for those who wish to build confidence in AI by using, or considering the use of, AI assessments.