Topic: Harnessing Data, AI, and Automation

Speaker: John Seal, Director Data Analytics, CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP)

Presentation:
John will explore how organizations can harness data, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation to drive smarter finance and business operations. Emphasizing that successful digital transformation is not just about technology, the session highlights the essential role of people and processes in leading and sustaining change. Participants will learn how to align teams, foster a culture of innovation, and integrate new tools with existing workflows. The session also examines how high-quality data fuels these technologies, enabling better decision-making, risk management, and operational efficiency.

Speaker’s bio:

John is a technical delivery leader for CLA’s digital team across multiple industries. John was formerly an Operations, Business Intelligence, and Analytics leader in a Fortune 500 retailer and a family-owned manufacturer. John combines his strong business experience with his deep technical knowledge to help guide clients on their journey to becoming data and analytics focused.

John works directly with client leaders to assess their digital needs and works with stakeholders to implement data architecture, data governance, reporting, GenAI, and process automation solutions. These solutions help clients better understand their business influences and gain efficiencies through technology.

Technical experience:

- Project management implementation

- Vendor management

- Data strategy development and data analytics

- ERP implementation

- Data governance

- Data architecture/engineering

- Financial reporting (FP&A)

- Inventory management (APICS)

- Supply chain management

- SIOP leadership

- GenAI

Education and professional involvement:

- Bachelor of science, major in Business Information Technology, Virginia Tech

- Yellow Belt Six Sigma

- APICS certification