The Future of Finance: Tech, Human Insight and the Power of Evolution

As the world of Finance rapidly embraces automation, AI and digital tools, many believe that the future of Finance is purely technological. But is it really that simple?

As someone deeply passionate about both leadership and technology, I firmly believe that the future of Finance doesn’t rest solely on digital tools. While automation and AI are revolutionizing our industry, it’s the people - their creativity, strategic thinking and leadership - that will truly drive transformative change.

The journey of our Finance team at HUGO BOSS reflects this belief. Over the years, I’ve led our team through multiple shifts embracing the power of technology while ensuring our people continue to evolve alongside it. Our organizational evolution has been driven by the conviction that as tech advances, so too must the skills, structure and leadership of the team.

Balancing Tech and Human Insight – A Strategic Imperative

From my perspective, the real challenge lies in striking the right balance between tech-driven efficiency and human insight. The PwC Finance Effectiveness Benchmark Study 2024 reinforces this. It shows that while leading Finance teams invest more than 10% of their costs in technology, they remain anchored in human-driven capabilities like strategic decision-making, governance and innovation leadership.

For me, this balance is critical: technology enhances productivity, but it’s our ability to interpret and apply data using human intelligence that turns numbers into action. AI can streamline, but it’s people who lead.

Thriving in the Digital Age: Becoming a Tech-Driven Finance Powerhouse

Thriving in a digital age is about more than just adopting new tools. It’s about becoming a tech-driven Finance Powerhouse - cultivating a culture of continuous learning and agility while embracing technology as an enabler, not a replacement. I do believe that true excellence lies in the ability to continuously evolve, building an organizational framework that can fully leverage both technology and human potential.

This belief has also shaped the evolution of our Finance function over the years. Our journey began more than 10 years ago with the creation of the Finance Projects team, which focused on managing key initiatives. It then evolved into Finance Business Partners, leading process and innovation management. Today, the team transformed into the Finance Excellence department, an integrated unit that combines governance, project management and change leadership to create a future-ready approach.

The Role of the Finance Excellence Team

Our Finance Excellence team reflects my vision for a 360-degree transformation of the Finance function. They drive innovation while ensuring that our core pillars of governance, project management and change leadership remain strong. This holistic approach keeps us agile and aligned with our vision.

I see this team as the backbone of our Finance function, embodying our pursuit of tech-driven excellence, while maintaining the human element that ensures success.

Why Skills and Leadership Are More Critical Than Ever

As we look to the future, the role of Finance professionals is evolving from transactional to strategic. Technology won’t eliminate the need for leadership, it will increase the demand for insightful, tech-savvy leaders. This is why upskilling is essential to me and my team. The World Economic Forum predicts that 50% of employees will need reskilling by 2025, and we are committed to being ahead of the curve.

Looking Ahead: A Finance Team Built for the Future

My vision for the Finance team at HUGO BOSS is clear: we will be the leading tech-driven Finance & Tax team for our internal customers and beyond. But that means embracing more than just tech - it means developing the skills and leadership necessary to navigate this evolving landscape.

Our Finance Excellence team embodies this approach, blending cutting-edge technology with the human intelligence that will always be at the heart of strategic decision-making.

What Superpower Would You Add to Your Finance Team?

In this ever-evolving digital age, what skills or “superpowers” do you think are critical for Finance teams to stay ahead? Let’s discuss! ????