How AI is transforming transactional finance roles
Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the future of work and transactional finance is no exception. From automating manual processes in accounts payable to streamlining payroll and credit control, AI is rapidly transforming how transactional finance jobs operate. With automation, however, comes the need for adaptation.
Our latest financial service market insight report gives interesting insights into how AI is being viewed by leaders in the industry. It’s clear there’s a shift, and with that new mindsets and skillsets come to the fore. For finance professionals in transactional roles, upskilling is no longer an afterthought. It’s the key to remaining relevant and competitive in the age of automation.
This transformation also raises questions about team streamlining and the future of managerial training. Upskilling becomes essential for current staff to adapt and progress in their careers. Let’s take a closer look at how AI is changing transactional finance roles and what it could mean for you.
How AI is reshaping transactional finance roles
AI tools are already delivering efficiency across the transactional finance function. When looking at accounts payable and receivable jobs, it’s clear to see a marked impact.
Accounts payable
AI-powered automation is streamlining processes by handling tasks such as invoice processing, approval workflows, and payment executions. Intelligent Optical Character Recognition (OCR) can read and process invoices, reducing manual data entry errors and speeding up the approval process. Machine learning algorithms can identify discrepancies and flag potential fraud, enhancing the security and accuracy of financial transactions.
Accounts Receivable
AI is enhancing accounts receivable by automating invoice generation, delivery, and follow-ups. Predictive analytics can forecast payment behaviours, helping businesses manage cash flow more effectively. AI-driven chatbots can interact with customers to resolve billing issues and answer queries, improving customer satisfaction and accelerating payment collection.
This evolution is reflected in hiring patterns. As the 2025 financial services market report highlights, automation is prompting organisations to reassess team structures and recruit for more value-added roles. While AI might reduce the need for manual input, it increases demand for professionals who can manage, interpret, and act on AI-generated data.
Credit Control
Credit control benefits from AI through automated credit scoring and risk assessment. Machine learning models analyse vast amounts of data to predict creditworthiness and monitor existing credit lines for signs of potential default. This enables more informed lending decisions and proactive risk management.
Payroll
AI is optimising payroll processes by automating salary calculations, tax deductions, and compliance reporting. AI systems can ensure timely and accurate payments while adhering to complex regulatory requirements. Additionally, AI can analyse workforce data to offer insights into labour costs and optimize staffing levels.
As noted in the report, a large percentage of finance leaders now view digital transformation as a top business priority. For transactional finance teams, this means embracing new tools, workflows, and expectations.
Why upskilling is an important transactional finance trend
Despite the rise of automation, the demand for skilled people hasn’t diminished. Upskilling is essential for career progression in this evolving landscape. By gaining new skills and competencies, transactional finance professionals can transition into more strategic roles and take advantage of new opportunities created by AI advancements.
Upskilling is the bridge between traditional finance roles and future-focused ones. Whether you’re in AP, AR, credit control, or payroll, building new capabilities is key to staying employable and progressing your career. The good news is that many employers are investing in training. As our report illustrates, upskilling and retention are now key prioritie for finance leaders.
Key upskilling areas for transactional finance professionals
To say ahead of the curve, professionals in transactional finance should focus on the following areas:
Digital and technical tools
- Learn how to use automation platforms and AI-driven systems for invoice processing, payroll, and credit scoring
- Build familiarity with ERP systems that integrate automation
Data interpretation and analysis
- Develop skills in reading dashboards, recognising patterns, and drawing insights from AI outputs
- Understand the basics of data quality, forecasting, and visualisation
Financial Analysis and Reporting
- Understanding financial statements, metrics, and KPIs
- Enhancing abilities in financial forecasting and budgeting
Project Management
- Learning project management methodologies to oversee AI implementation projects
- Developing skills to manage cross-functional teams and drive change initiatives
Soft skills
- Strengthen your ability to explain data insights and process changes to non-technical stakeholders
- Present reports, justify recommendations, and support strategic decision-making through great communication
Ethics and Compliance
- Understanding the ethical considerations and regulatory requirements associated with AI in finance
- Ensuring that AI implementations adhere to legal standards and promote transparency
How to start upskilling
Whether you’re looking to future-proof your current position or transition into a more strategic finance role, these practical steps will help you upskill.
- Self-Assessment: Identify current skill gaps and areas for improvement. Set clear career goals and determine which skills are needed to achieve them.
- Seek Educational Opportunities: Enrol in relevant courses and certifications, such as data analytics, AI in finance, and project management. Utilize online learning platforms (e.g., Coursera, edX, LinkedIn Learning) that offer courses on these topics.
- Leverage Workplace Resources: Participate in training programs and workshops offered by employers. Engage in cross-training opportunities to gain exposure to distinct functions within the finance department.
- Network and Mentorship: Join professional organizations and attend industry conferences to stay informed about trends and best practices.
- Seek mentorship from experienced colleagues or industry professionals who can provide guidance and support.
- Practical Experience: Apply new skills in real-world scenarios by volunteering for projects or initiatives within the organization. Take on additional responsibilities that allow for the application of newly acquired knowledge.
As the report reveals, finance professionals who proactively upskill are far more likely to secure career growth and remain in high demand, even as automation continues to evolve.
The future of finance managers in an AI-powered world
AI isn’t just changing day-to-day transactional tasks, it’s also redefining what it means to be a finance manager. Leaders must now balance technical fluency with people management and strategic thinking. As noted in the report, data-led decision-making is increasingly central to finance leadership roles.
Future managers will need to lead teams through transformation, evaluate the impact of automation, and ensure compliance in an AI-driven environment. That means training in areas like change management, ethical AI use, and advanced reporting is becoming just as important as financial knowledge.
Explore transactional finance jobs with Marks Sattin
Our part-qualified and transactional division is one of our most established teams in the business. They have the in-depth market knowledge and expertise to place high-quality candidates across a variety of sectors including retail, FMCG, telecoms, media, technology, property, construction, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, legal, travel and tourism.
If you are looking to recruit or be hired as an accounts payable or receivable professional, then explore our finance and accounting division at Marks Sattin. To get more insights into the state of the finance industry, download our 2025 financial services market report and salary guide today.
