Many sectors are searching for experts who can deliver electronic efficiency and financial correctness.
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With businesses embracing digital transformation, the accounting industry is also seeing a change. Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Machine Learning (ML), and AI-powered solutions are helping automate laborious and painstaking processes that earlier had to be done by hand. This has led to new and developing careers such as the Accounting Automation Specialist.
An accounting automation specialist puts the appropriate technological solutions into place and decides which accounting and finance tasks should be automated. Financial reporting, data analysis, repetitive accounting processes, contract drafting, contract review and analysis, and providing recommendations to support decision-making are some of the tasks. This not only requires familiarity with accounting procedures but also hands-on experience of working with various software and automation tools utilising AI, Generative AI, RPA, ML, and Natural Language Processing (NLP).
Requirements
Two preconditions for this position are a sound finance background and technical know-how. While degrees such as B.Com, BBA, M.Com or MBA (Finance) provide the first, this needs to be supplemented by higher-end certifications that enable one to move into into the new digital economy. Certifications such as the following will help aspirants upgrade their profiles:
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RPA software such as UiPath, Automation Anywhere, and Blue Prism
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AI and Machine Learning for Finance
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Generative AI applications in audit and reporting
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Business Intelligence (BI) solutions such as Power BI and Tableau
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Accounting and Risk Assessment Data Analytics
Globally accepted certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Enrolled Agent (the U.S.), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or the Chartered Certified Accountant from the ACCA will offer a competitive edge and build credibility.
Responsibilities
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Designing and optimising workflow to minimise manual intervention
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Including AI-driven data handling and reporting systems
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Application of automation software with existing systems such as SAP, Oracle, Tally, and QuickBooks
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Parsing data visualisation software to offer support for decision-making
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Allocating automatic audit trails for regulatory compliance
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Preparation of financial reports and contract review using generative AI
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Ensuring proper implementation of AI technologies
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Supervision of the system by AI-powered performance monitoring bots
Career prospects
Opportunities are available across sectors like banking, consulting, e-commerce, healthcare, and government that are constantly searching for experts who can deliver electronic efficiency and financial correctness. At the lower level, the roles will be Automation Analyst, Financial Process Associate, and Junior ERP Consultant are the lower-level positions. Senior positions include Chief Automation Officer, Digital Transformation Consultant, ERP Implementation Lead, or Accounting Automation Manager. Professionals can also freelance or offer consulting services, which provide automated solutions to SMEs and start-ups.
The field of Accounting Automation presents a compelling mix of accounting expertise and innovation technology and those equipped with the right analytical tools, qualifications, and foresight will become the pillars of intelligent, future-ready financial systems.
The writer is Founder and CEO, KC GlobEd.
Published – August 03, 2025 10:00 am IST
