AI, Data Strain and the New CFO Software Reality

As finance functions embrace digital transformation, CFOs are under growing pressure to modernize systems that can no longer keep pace with today’s data volumes and reporting demands. The rise of AI, automation, and real-time analytics has created a new software reality—one where traditional, siloed accounting tools fall short in supporting strategic finance.

In this session, Alex Oppe (Account Executive, AccountsIQ) and Kevin Appleby (COO & Podcast Host, GrowCFO) explored how forward-thinking finance teams are adapting to this new environment. They discussed the strain caused by disconnected systems and manual processes, and how integrated, cloud-based solutions enable CFOs to harness data more intelligently, increase efficiency, and unlock actionable insights.

Together, they unpacked how finance leaders can move beyond transactional reporting to drive business performance through automation, consolidated data, and scalable technology that aligns with the pace of modern growth.

Highlights:

  • The shifting CFO software landscape in an AI-driven world.
  • How data strain limits financial agility and decision-making.
  • Strategies to unify accounting, reporting, and analytics under one platform.
  • Practical examples of how automation reduces error and increases efficiency.
  • Why cloud-native, scalable finance systems are essential for growth.
  • How AI-ready solutions empower CFOs to shift focus from compliance to strategy.

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Scaling through acquisition can double the size of your business—but only if your finance systems, controls and culture keep up. In this session, Tim O’Reilly, Ed Mortimer and Kevin Appleby share how Guild Garage Group used Sage Intacct, a unified tech stack and disciplined capital allocation to grow from 0 to 28 partners and $300m in revenue, while staying in control of cash, risk and performance.

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