AI Insight: Why AI won’t replace the controller role—but will transform it
AI won’t make controllers obsolete. It primarily automates repetitive tasks such as data collection, reporting, and forecasting. At the same time, there is a growing need for professionals who can interpret data, derive actionable recommendations, and make complex relationships understandable.
From number cruncher to strategic business partner
Digitalization is fundamentally changing expectations for finance teams. Modern ERP systems, automated dashboards, and real-time data enable faster analysis and more efficient processes. This shifts the focus in controlling:
- less operational data entry
- more interpretation and consulting
- greater involvement in strategic decisions
- closer collaboration with other business units
Controllers are increasingly becoming internal consultants. They support executives in making data-driven decisions and identifying corporate trends at an early stage.
Thanks in particular to digitalization and automation, business partnering, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills are becoming significantly more important in the finance sector.
Agile working is also becoming more important in finance
While agile methods were previously used primarily in IT or product teams, they are now also reaching finance and controlling departments.
Why?
Because companies need to react more quickly to market changes. Traditional annual planning often reaches its limits in this context. Instead, flexible forecasts, scenario analyses, and continuous management are gaining importance.
For controllers, this means:
- working faster with up-to-date data
- greater adaptability
- closer collaboration with business departments
- more autonomy and decision-making authority
This requires not only technical expertise but also a modern mindset.
Automation is transforming day-to-day work in controlling
Many traditional tasks are already automated today:
- Standard reporting
- Data analysis
- Forecasting processes
- Invoicing and posting processes
- KPI dashboards
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and intelligent systems handle repetitive tasks faster and with fewer errors. As a result, the role of controllers is shifting toward more value-adding tasks.
However, this does not mean that fewer professionals are needed. Rather, the skill set is changing.
Companies are increasingly seeking candidates who can combine technical understanding with business management expertise.
What skills should controllers bring to the table today
In addition to traditional controlling knowledge, new competencies are gaining massive importance.
Digital and technical skills
Among other things, knowledge in the following areas is in demand:
- Power BI
- SAP S/4HANA
- Excel Advanced & Power Query
- Data visualization
- BI tools
- Data analysis
- AI-powered applications
Research institutions such as TU Graz are also currently engaged in intensive research into how artificial intelligence is changing competency profiles in controlling and what requirements will be placed on finance professionals in the future.
Controllers do not need to be able to program themselves—but they should understand how modern systems work and how data can be used effectively.
Soft skills are becoming more important than ever
At the same time, the demands on personal competencies are rising:
- analytical thinking
- communication skills
- willingness to embrace change
- business acumen
- problem-solving skills
- openness to new technologies
An “open mindset” in particular is increasingly becoming a decisive factor. Companies are looking for individuals who do not view change as a risk, but who want to actively shape it.
The impact of AI on controlling
Artificial intelligence is already having a noticeable impact on controlling today. Modern systems can:
- Identify patterns in large data sets
- Automate forecasts
- Identify risks early on
- Detect anomalies
- Provide a basis for decision-making
This creates new opportunities for data-driven corporate management.
At the same time, there is still a need for people who critically question results and place them in the right context. After all, AI provides data—interpretation remains the task of experienced professionals.
The current discussion surrounding AI in the finance sector clearly shows: The role of controllers is noticeably shifting away from operational data generation toward strategic decision support.
What this means for companies
It is becoming increasingly important for companies to define modern competency profiles in controlling.
In addition to professional qualifications, the following are now essential:
- digital affinity
- willingness to learn
- adaptability
- interdisciplinary thinking
- strategic competence
The job market already clearly shows that candidates with these skills are in high demand—and correspondingly hard to find.
Especially in the finance sector, this is making recruiting an increasingly strategic issue.
Conclusion: The controller role is becoming more strategic, digital, and versatile
Automation and AI are bringing about lasting changes in controlling. Standardized tasks are increasingly disappearing or being automated. At the same time, new requirements and opportunities are emerging.
Controllers are evolving into data-driven business partners who actively support companies in their decision-making. This requires not only a grasp of numbers but also technological competence, agility, and a modern mindset.
Companies that recognize this trend early on and attract the right talent secure a clear competitive advantage in the long term.
FAQ: The Role of Controllers, Digitalization & AI
AI primarily automates repetitive tasks such as reporting, forecasting, and data analysis. At the same time, strategic activities, interpretation, and consulting are becoming increasingly important.
Knowledge of Power BI, SAP S/4HANA, BI tools, data visualization, and data-driven analytics platforms is particularly in demand.
In addition to analytical thinking, communication skills, a willingness to embrace change, entrepreneurial thinking, and an open mindset are crucial.
No. AI supports controllers in data-driven analysis but does not replace human judgment, strategic thinking, and decision-making ability.
Companies must react more quickly to changes. That is why flexible forecasts, real-time data, and agile processes are becoming increasingly important.
Many companies are looking for candidates with a combination of finance expertise, digital skills, and strategic understanding. It is precisely these profiles that are currently in high demand and hard to find.
