From Compliance to Strategy: Redefining Finance Talent Requirements

A strong finance professional can connect data to real business decisions. Useful skills include basic analytics through SQL or Python, simple visual dashboards.

Finance recruitment landscape has moved into a new phase. Job descriptions for senior analyst roles now mention Python skills along with ACCA. Experience in sustainability reporting is now as important as audit experience. Skills that were enough three years ago are no longer enough. Finance leaders in many sectors are updating what they look for as rules change, technology improves, and the work of finance teams becomes wider and more demanding.

From manual work to smart workflows

Recent studies show that 82% of Indian treasury leaders see AI and automation as top priorities, especially for cash planning and trade finance. Finance teams are now moving from basic tools to complete digital processes. The best hire is someone who knows where automation truly helps and where human judgment is still needed. Key skills include mapping workflows, finding gaps, using RPA tools and cloud systems, and improving automated controls. A person who can explain a month end process, build a small sample workflow, and measure time saved becomes very valuable.

Turning numbers into clear stories that guide action

Leaders see many reports but get few useful insights. A strong finance professional can connect data to real business decisions. Useful skills include basic analytics through SQL or Python, simple visual dashboards, and the ability to explain numbers in business terms, not only accounting terms. A report that says “revenue fell 8 percent this quarter” gives limited help. A report that explains why renewals were delayed and what can be done about it builds trust.

Preparing for climate reporting and full chain accountability

“ISSB rules and Scope 3 reporting are moving toward required standards before 2027. ISSB sets global rules for reporting on climate risk. Scope 3 covers emissions from suppliers and product use. Teams that treat ESG as a simple form to fill will face long delays and extra costs,” said Pratham Barot, CEO & Co –Founder, Zell Education.

A ready team has someone who can link climate data with financial reports, work with procurement and operations, and build simple cases that show the value of sustainability steps. This fits well in finance because it uses the same care and control needed in financial reporting.

Protecting access to sensitive financial data

Cybercrime costs may reach USD 10.5 trillion by 2025. Finance teams face high risk because they hold payment data, personal details, and confidential plans. Finance needs people who understand how data moves, where risks exist, and how to work with IT on threat checks. They must also set up response steps before issues happen. This builds a culture where team members check unusual requests, review access rights, and report issues quickly.

Human skill behind every change in tools

Any new system, rule or reporting method needs more than project management. Success depends on someone who can explain why the change is needed, handle concerns, and keep progress steady. Useful skills include knowing who the key people are, simple and clear communication, basic agile methods, and the ability to explain technical needs in plain language. This often decides whether a new system gives the benefits expected.

Building a team ready for the future starts with improving strengths already present. Finance leaders are investing in better skills in automation, data storytelling, climate reporting, cyber safety, and change support. These skills help the finance function bring accuracy and simple insight together. Ongoing learning helps teams stay flexible, add value, and act as strong partners to the business. Organisations that build these five skills today will work with more clarity in 2026.