Topic: Implementing A.I. into Finance and Accounting Functions / Departments

Speaker: Juliana Smith, Strategic Transformation Advisor
 

Presentation:

This session provides a practical overview of how artificial intelligence is being applied within finance and accounting functions. It aims to align participants on a common understanding of key concepts—such as AI, machine learning, and generative AI—and how these capabilities are currently showing up in finance organizations.

Participants will be introduced to a structured way of thinking about AI adoption, including how to identify relevant use cases, assess data readiness, and approach piloting and scaling solutions. The session also highlights implications for finance roles, skills, and governance, with real-world examples to illustrate where AI is driving value today.

Presentation: 

- Define key AI concepts (AI, machine learning, generative AI) and differentiate their applications within finance
- Evaluate AI opportunities using a structured framework, including problem definition, data readiness, and build vs. buy considerations
- Identify high-impact AI use cases across finance and accounting functions
- Describe the phases of AI adoption (pilot, prove, scale) and associated governance requirements
- Assess the impact of AI on finance roles, skills, and operating models

Speaker's Bio:

Juliana Smith is a Strategic Transformation Advisor and founder of STA by Juliana Smith, where she advises enterprise clients on operating model design, finance transformation, and the adoption of advanced analytics and AI. She has led large-scale transformation initiatives across Fortune 100 organizations, with deep experience in Global Business Services, helping organizations evolve from functionally siloed structures to integrated, value-driven operating models.

She brings both operator and advisory experience, with a background spanning FP&A, finance operations, and end-to-end transformation across the finance value chain. Juliana has a strong track record in the energy and oil & gas sector and has worked across international markets, bringing a global perspective to how organizations design, scale, and govern finance operations. She operates at the intersection of finance, data, and technology—helping leadership teams improve performance, strengthen governance, and enable more insight-driven decision-making. She is known for bridging strategy and execution, translating complex transformation agendas into practical, scalable outcomes.