Episode 25

Driving Transformation & Change in Accounting Pt1

Hannah Munro, the Managing Director of itas shares insights on driving change and transformation in accounting firms. Hannah explains that change goes beyond technology and emphasizes the importance of discussing all aspects surrounding technology that contribute to successful change and transformation. She highlights the value of speaking with respected individuals and experts in the field, providing inspiration and actionable advice.

The CFO 4.0 podcast, hosted by Hannah, focuses on the future of finance leadership and discusses what CFOs and aspiring finance leaders should consider. Hannah also emphasizes the role of accountants as valuable advisors, particularly for mid-market businesses that have outgrown basic bookkeeping and require strategic guidance. She stresses the broad skillset of accountants and their ability to bring certainty to uncertain situations.

Regarding change, Hannah explains that transformation is a positive movement from uncertainty and complexity to a streamlined and productive environment. She emphasizes the need for accountants to embrace the accelerating pace of change and adapt their roles accordingly. While transactional tasks may be automated, the interpretation of information, context-setting, and critical thinking will remain valuable skills.

In terms of change management, Hannah categorizes individuals into three profiles: those who embrace change, those who accept it but seek stability, and those who fear or resist change. Finding a balance within a change project is crucial, as all three profiles contribute different perspectives and roles. It's important to understand the reasons behind resistance to change and address any concerns.

Hannah Munro is the Managing Director of itas, a Financial Transformation consultancy specializing in Sage technologies. With a passion for helping finance teams and businesses, Hannah and her team provide personalized solutions to reduce month-end close time, implement real-time reporting, automate purchasing processes, and more. Hannah also hosts the CFO 4.0 podcast, offering actionable advice and inspiration for CFOs and finance leaders. To learn more about Hannah and itas, visit itassolutions.co.uk. Reach out for virtual coffee and discussions on financial transformation and technology.

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The Accounting Influencers Podcast drops every Monday to accounting professionals, finance specialists, software vendors, tech providers and influencers across 150 countries in the accountancy, CPA and bookkeeping space. To participate in our international virtual speed networking events for the accounting community, go to https://accountinginfluencers.com/events and book your place at the next gathering. Great to build your personal brand and make valuable industry connections.

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You can watch this episode and more on our YouTube Channel

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Join the Accounting Influencers community and get invitations to our international speed networking events to build your personal brand and network in the accounting, finance and tech world: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accountinginfluencers

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Thanks to our sponsors:

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If you'd like to sponsor the show and elevate your brand with our audience, reach out to show host Rob Brown on LinkedIn and his team will reach out to fix up a chat to explore.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

About the Podcast

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Accounting Voices Podcast
Accounting Voices helps people in the accounting world stay relevant visible and vocal. Host Rob Brown interprets trends reshaping the profession and gives listeners insight to build authority influence and a stronger voice in firms and markets.

About your host

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Rob Brown

Rob Brown is the founder and host of the Accounting Voices Podcast, the flagship solo show of the Accounting Voices Network. Each episode offers sharp analysis and commentary on the trends, ideas and people shaping the global accounting profession.

Through this Accounting Voices Podcast, Rob helps accounting firm leaders, decision makers and professionals stay relevant and make sense of disruption in areas like AI, automation, M&A, private equity and soft skills beyond the tech. His perspective blends clarity, insight and curiosity, making complex issues relevant and practical for professionals and decision makers across accounting and finance.

He also leads two monthly panel shows, Accounting M&A and Accounting AI, which bring together senior voices to explore consolidation, strategy and the impact of technology on firms and people.

Rob is the author of the bestselling book Build Your Reputation (Wiley) and a TEDx speaker whose talk The Personal Brand of You has more than 400,000 views. Over his career he has hosted and moderated more than 1,000 conversations with accounting and fintech leaders worldwide.

Based in Nottingham UK, Rob is a stroke survivor living with epilepsy, a black belt in kickboxing, a decent chess player and an average player of four musical instruments.