The finance sector has always been shaped by technological change. The pace and scale of disruption have accelerated in recent years, with AI transforming how financial services operate. Many are now openly raising questions about the future of careers in the sector.
As technology increasingly handles various tasks, human expertise remains essential, especially in areas where judgment and understanding of regulations are critical.
AI’s foothold in finance roles
Generative AI and automation have quickly transitioned from abstract concepts to being integrated into everyday processes across banking and investment firms. Tasks once considered routine, such as data entry, risk forecasting, Know Your Customer (KYC) checks, and compliance reporting, are increasingly handled by AI systems. Advanced models can analyse vast datasets to flag potential risks or generate regulatory reports with unprecedented efficiency.
Automation isn’t eliminating the need for people. Human oversight is crucial in the heavily regulated financial industries. Decisions about lending and investment strategies can’t be left entirely to algorithms. Regulators and clients expect accountability, ethical judgment, and transparency, qualities only people can provide. AI is best viewed as an enabler, streamlining workflows and freeing professionals to focus on strategic, value-driven tasks.
Labour market trends
The impact of automation is already visible in the UK job market. Openings for roles most exposed to automation—such as clerical and routine administrative positions—have dropped sharply, with reports pointing to a 38% fall in postings over the past year. The trend reflects how businesses are reconfiguring their workforce in response to new technology.
At the same time, demand is growing in areas where humans and machines work side by side. Fintech firms are hiring AI specialists, compliance experts are in greater need to manage regulatory complexity, and transformation consultants are now helping financial institutions adapt. AI is creating new job opportunities for those with experience with the technology.
Skills evolution: What businesses need to hire for
Finance professionals will need to offer traditional and emerging digital skills to thrive in the modern work environment. New positions like digital transformation analysts require technical fluency in coding and AI systems, alongside the ability to interpret complex outputs and apply them to business strategy.
Soft skills are just as important. Adaptability and critical thinking are needed to avoid over-reliance on AI. Employers are recognising the value of professionals who connect technical teams and stakeholders. To secure this talent, businesses are increasingly partnering with specialist accountancy recruitment experts who understand the evolving digital landscape and the core financial skills companies continue to need.
Government-industry collaboration
Recognising the urgency of the challenge, the government has set the ambitious target to train 7.5 million workers in AI-related skills by 2030. Peter Kyle, the Secretary of State for Technology, emphasised that embracing AI is essential; those who don’t upskill risk being left behind. Achieving this goal will require collaboration between government, universities, and businesses to ensure workers can transition into newly created roles.
For employers, investment in training programmes and continuous professional development will be critical to staying competitive. The firms that succeed will be those that treat AI as an opportunity to redefine the abilities of their workforce.