The Role of AI in the Accounting Profession

The 4th Industrial Revolution has ushered in the age of Big Data and greater use of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and automation in all aspects of human life. As in most industries, the rapid evolution in the capability and accessibility of AI, and new forms of generative AI, has unlocked new opportunities for the accounting profession. For example, to improve client services and ultimately the usefulness and reliability of financial reporting. But new opportunities also come with new risks and uncertainty, so it is more important than ever to innovate safely. For those who are able to navigate the complexity the benefits can be substantial. Rather than taking a reactive posture, the profession needs to take an active role in the use of data, automation and AI, and to rethink the way accountants and auditors are trained and empowered through digital technologies.

Speaker Profiles:

Thomas Pagram is a Partner at PwC, specialising in Artificial Intelligence and Digital Solutions for audit, trust and risk, with a deep technical background in software engineering and data science. He is the Chief Technology Officer for the firm's Assurance businesses and one of PwC's global engineering and AI leaders. In his role, Tom is transforming the way that PwC delivers audits through intelligent automation, and helping organisations build confidence in their own use of AI solutions and emerging technology.

Slav Tabachnik is a Partner at Deloitte's and leads a team of data scientists that design and deliver custom built analytic solutions for clients across Australia. With a passion for technology and innovation, Slav is responsible for digitizing the Deloitte's service offerings for our clients and leads the Audit & Assurance Asset Program. With over two decades of experience Slav has delivered Analytics Transformation Programs for iconic international brands, led the development of big data analytics platforms as well as developed disruptive industry solutions through AI and automation.

Moderator:

Professor Bala Rajaratnam is a visiting Professor of Business Analytics at the University of Sydney Business School. His research interests lie broadly in Machine Learning, Data Science and High Dimensional Statistical Inference.

The Accounting Society (ASOC) is a student-focused society partnered with The University of Sydney Business School.

The Society's mission is to promote a greater awareness of accounting related careers by being the most accessible, innovative and rewarding society for business students. In doing so, the Society functions as a gateway between its sponsors and members, hosting regular workshops and career events to provide its members with valuable exposure to professional service firms.