At a glance
- Accountants are combining core expertise with new capabilities in AI, ESG and advisory.
- Professional development requires dedicated time and a structured approach to learning.
- Face-to-face impact is still important despite technological advancement.
The numbers tell a clear story about our profession’s evolution. Recent research from Intuit QuickBooks revealed that 98% of firms plan to adopt new technologies this year. Meanwhile, Sage’s global survey found that more than half of accountants feel uncertain about their skill sets as the industry shifts.
Tax reforms, expanded advisory expectations and relentless technological advancement have pushed professional development far beyond traditional CPD.
As Jeremy Campbell, CEO of Black Isle Group, says: “Accounting is no longer just about numbers – it’s about problem-solving, communication and adaptability. These meta-skills make it easier to grow in your career, take on new challenges and build strong client relationships.”
The challenge for practitioners at every level is twofold: maintaining deep accounting expertise while mastering new capabilities. Industry experts recommend the following seven key areas for focusing your professional development.
1. Identify your core focus
The accounting profession has diversified significantly, encompassing specialised areas like forensic accounting, sustainability reporting and financial technology.
Rather than trying to master everything, understand your strengths and market demands through self-reflection and strategic planning. Look at emerging areas where your skills and interests align with industry needs and determine what expertise will be needed in the next five to 10 years.
According to Robert Half’s 2025 Salary Guide, the most in-demand technical specialisations are financial reporting, data analytics, technical accounting and automation, with niche ERP tools and big data analysis skills quoted by employers as particularly hard to find.
2. Embrace AI and automation
Dr Clare Walsh, Director of Education at the Institute of Analytics, says accountants are ideally positioned to focus on some of the most forward-looking skills.
‘For some, this means adopting a predictive approach to financial analysis. For others, it involves exploring new, emerging career paths that are already well matched to their skills,’ she says.
But understanding artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just about learning new software. Developing skills in data interpretation, algorithmic bias, governance frameworks and predictivity analytics would be useful, as would knowing when human judgment is crucial.
3. Transition to strategic advisory
The shift from compliance to advisory requires mastering new capabilities beyond technical knowledge.
Modern advisory work demands a deeper understanding of business strategy, stronger analytical capabilities and the confidence to guide client decision-making.
Success in advisory roles means developing the ability to translate complex financial data into actionable insights for clients. Key areas include scenario planning, risk assessment and strategic financial planning. Sector expertise has also become increasingly valuable as clients seek advisors who truly understand their business challenges.
4. Master ESG fundamentals
Environmental, Social and Governance reporting has moved from a nice-to-have to a business necessity.
Kevin Paget, Director and Head of Deal Advisory at Mercer & Hole, sees this shift daily in his practice.
“Integrating ESG practices into business operations, whilst considering the business model, its impact and its sustainability, is a big focus for many companies,” he says.
“Climate-conscious individuals are being drawn into this area.”
Dr Walsh shares this sentiment. She says there are not yet the obvious measures from carbon reporting sensors, so reliable estimates still require human skill. Understanding carbon accounting, sustainability metrics and regulatory requirements could seize demand in this area.
5. Build leadership capabilities
Technical expertise alone no longer differentiates top performers. With 94% of accountants finding hiring difficult in 2024, Hannah Szymanski, Client Services Director – Senior Appointments at Robert Half, says firms increasingly value professionals who can lead teams, manage client relationships and communicate complex financial concepts clearly.
She notes that employers are specifically seeking ‘leadership abilities, resilience and adaptability’ alongside technical competencies. These skills become particularly crucial when moving into management positions or building advisory services.
6. Polish your professional presence
Despite the shift towards hybrid working, face-to-face business skills remain important. Major firms have publicly recognised that professionals at all levels need to strengthen their in-person impact, from delivering presentations to leading client meetings and participating in industry events.
Paget agrees, saying: “Networking wasn’t something that was immediately natural to me, but something that I’ve honed over the years.” This ability to build relationships and communicate confidently in person has become increasingly valuable as firms expand client services.
7. Create structured learning time
If your professional development often falls victim to urgent client work, block out specific times for learning, whether it’s reviewing industry updates, completing courses or attending workshops.
Create a structured learning plan that aligns with your current role and future aspirations. As Dr Walsh says: “We are the first generation of 40 and 50-year-olds to be told that what we learnt in the 1990s and 2000s may not get us through the remainder of our careers.”
The IFA will hold a conference on AI on 6 March. More information here.
