Much of the conversation around AI and its impact on accountancy focuses on whether technology will replace accountants. From my perspective, the more important question is how AI is changing the skills accountants need to succeed.

ICAEW’s latest research suggests that, by 2030, accountants will spend less time on compliance and more time on judgement, systems thinking and ethical oversight. That reflects what many of us are already experiencing: accountancy as a profession is evolving as opposed to disappearing.

Technology has transformed many of the routine processes that once defined accountancy. That has created more time for stronger client relationships and strategic advice.