By Chris Sheedy, INTHEBLACK CPA Australia
Skills that will be in particularly high demand in 2026 and onwards include AI fluency, data visualisation and carbon accounting/sustainability reporting expertise.
With AI handling lower-value tasks, employers are looking for accountants who are able to extract insights from financial reporting and communicate these findings effectively.
Adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning are perhaps the most important skills for CAs, as they need to keep up with change in the profession.
In summary the 6 skills are:
- AI fluency
- data visualisation for decision making
- problem solving
- clear, concise communication
- sustainability/ESG reporting
- adaptability and lifelong learning.
Accountants know a thing or two about transformation. Having experienced first-hand the effects of automation and digital technology well before it occurred in most other sectors, finance professionals have learned to upskill and use new tools as opportunities have presented themselves.
AI, data management and interpretation, global reporting standards, a push for better demonstration of sustainable business practices, and evolving stakeholder expectations regarding the strategic importance of the finance role are influencing the skills individual accountants require.
Employers don’t just need accountants with technical knowledge. They also need them to be commercially savvy business experts and skilful communicators, who have the ability to help organisations navigate uncertainty. They must be able to leverage technology to not just do their own job more efficiently, but also to communicate their findings to individuals and departments that are not as familiar with spreadsheets and reports. Along the way, they must be ethical and collaborative.
The CA Capability Model outlines the essential capabilities for CAs now and for the future. It’s continually updated to reflect the changing demands of the profession and the broader business landscape. Capabilities considered essential in all future accounting roles at all levels include:
- Ethics and integrity
- Critical thinking and judgement
- Communication
- Problem solving and decision making.
This article explores the most in-demand skills and attributes needed for accountants of the future, drawing on knowledge of CAs and accounting recruitment experts.
