Australiaโs leading professional accounting body, CPA Australia, have identified six skills business owners will need to thrive in 2025.ย
According to CPA Australiaโs Chief Learning and Innovation Officer, Dr Asheley Jones, the economic environment has reached a turning point.ย ย
โProfessionally, many individuals are at a crucial crossroads,โ Dr Jones said.
โThey need to adapt to the changing landscape to ensure they maintain the career trajectory they want.
โWhether you’re a graduate or a seasoned C-suite executive, professionals who get ahead of the curve in developing these skills will have a strong advantage in a competitive talent market.โ
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)ย ย
AI is transforming industries by automating routine tasks and uncovering new efficiencies.
However, the key to leveraging AI lies in human expertise.
โAI wonโt take your job, but those who know how to use it effectively will thrive,โ Dr Jones said.
From process automation to predictive analytics, the ability to harness AI tools will be a defining skill for finance professionals.
2. Data storytellingย ย
The ability to transform raw data into actionable insights is a skill that will define success in the years ahead.
โData is an incredibly powerful tool, but itโs only as effective as the story it tells,โ Dr Jones said.
This goes beyond technical analysis and is about interpreting data to inform planning, investment and long-term goal-setting.
3. Technology Literacyย ย
The digital revolution is rewriting the rules of business, and professionals must keep up.
โUnderstanding new digital tools and data analytics platforms can streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and reduce risk,โ Dr Jones said.
From artificial intelligence to the ability to use advanced software, professionals equipped with technological fluency will be indispensable.ย ย
4. Critical thinking and problem-solvingย ย
As the volume of available data grows, the ability to critically analyse and interpret it becomes paramount.
โCritical thinking is at the heart of evaluating risks and making informed decisions,โ Dr Jones said.
โEven the most sophisticated technology is only as effective as the professionals interpreting its outputs.โ
Professionals who can combine data insights with strategic decision-making will drive business growth in 2025 and beyond.
5. Ethicsย ย
As technology advances, the ethical dimensions of decision-making are becoming increasingly complex.
โEthics is no longer black and white,โ says Dr Jones.
โProfessionals must navigate the grey areas, particularly around AI and data privacy.โย ย
Understanding the principles of transparency, fairness, and accountability will set future leaders apart. Those who can balance technological innovation with ethical considerations will be invaluable.
6. Environmental impact
The impact on the environment is something that businesses are being forced to pay attention to.
โOrganisations are increasingly focused on their environmental and social impacts,โ Dr Jones said.
โLeadership roles that blend technology, strategy, and sustainability expertise will be in high demand.โ