INTHEBLACK February / March 2026 - Magazine - Page 34
F E AT U R E
“When we look at the world around
us — the pace of innovation, the disruption
of traditional business models, the
new expectations of transparency and
trust — it is clear that the role of the
accountant has outgrown its old definitions,”
says Dr Ash Jones, chief learning and
innovation officer at CPA Australia.
“For decades, accountants were the
custodians of accuracy who made sure that
the numbers added up, the reports reconciled
and the rules were followed. But today,
the accountant’s role has changed.
Financial professionals are becoming
strategic influencers. They are trusted
34 INTHEBLACK February/March 2026
voices in shaping business decisions,
public policy and community outcomes.”
Whether advising on fiscal strategy
in government, helping a small business
navigate digital transformation or guiding
a board through integrated financial
reporting, today’s CPA is a navigator
of complexity, says Dr Jones.
“The finance professional’s skillset now
spans far beyond compliance, as they are
expected to lead conversations about AI
governance, digital risk, environmental
reporting and social accountability. Modern
accountants are no longer historians of
business; they are architects of foresight.
