Six business skills you’ll need to succeed in 2026

Australia’s biggest accounting body, CPA Australia, has outlined six key skills that business and finance professionals will need to succeed in 2026 and beyond.

CPA Australia’s Business Investment Lead, Gavan Ord, said technology, regulation and stakeholder expectations are reshaping how organisations and the accounting profession operates.

“Technical expertise, adaptability and foresight have long underpinned professional success,” he said. “Professionals who master these areas will do more than keep pace with change – they will help drive it. They will help organisations unlock new opportunities, build resilience and maintain trust, while advancing their own careers and earning potential.”

1. Getting real value from artificial intelligence (AI) 

“AI and automation are increasingly being adopted by Australian businesses, helping to simplify processes and reduce repetitive and time-consuming tasks,” said Mr Ord. “However, without a disciplined evaluation process, businesses risk over-investing in the technology. 

“CPA Australia members report that standard investment procedures are not always being followed when investing in AI, producing poor decisions and wasted spend. Accountants that apply the same rigorous evaluation to potential AI investments as they would to any other asset are more likely to see their business realise its benefits and emerge as winners in 2026 and beyond.”

2. Data storytelling 

“Data is an increasingly critical business asset,” said Mr Ord. “However, data only becomes valuable when it is translated into compelling narratives that inform decision-making. Data storytelling bridges the gap between analytics and action, turning insights into strategies that resonate with stakeholders at every level.”

3. Sustainability reporting

“Sustainability reporting presents a career boost opportunity for many accounting and finance professionals, but only if they are prepared for the changes,” said Mr Ord.

“With mandatory climate-related disclosures now in effect for larger businesses, accounting professionals should consider deepening their sustainability expertise. Organisations are increasingly looking for and value professionals who can interpret environmental data, assess risks and translate these insights into actionable plans that drive long-term business value.”

4. Critical thinking and communication

“Critical thinking enables accounting and finance professionals to interpret data, identify trends, ask the right questions and draw meaningful conclusions that support business,” said Mr Ord. “Even the most advanced technologies are ineffective if professionals cannot interpret, verify and communicate the insights they produce. Critical thinking is crucial for evaluating risks, challenging assumptions and making evidence-based decisions.

“Equally important to accountants is communication skills. The ability to translate complex financial insights into clear actions is what turns data into strategy. Those who combine strong analytical skills with persuasive communication are invaluable for their organisations.”

5. Regulatory and reporting expertise

“With the regulatory environment becoming more complex and voluminous, professionals must continuously update their knowledge of regulatory requirements, including reporting obligations. This knowledge is critical for businesses operating in a connected economy,” said Mr Ord.

“Businesses need professionals who can ensure transparency, build investor confidence and navigate often complex compliance landscapes without slowing growth. Those who master this skillset will always be in high demand among employers.”

6. Ethical leadership – building influence and trust

“Individuals must be equipped to deal with ethical dilemmas that arise in real-world environments,” said Mr Ord. “Ethical considerations extend to technology adoption, sustainability and data governance. The rise of AI and automation presents further challenges as professionals must understand not only how to use these tools effectively but also how to use them responsibly. 

“Ethical leadership means asking the right questions. In AI, this means asking: How are algorithms making decisions? Are biases being mitigated? Is data being handled in ways that respects confidentiality and regulatory requirements? For professionals, developing the ability to navigate complex ethical landscapes will be essential for long-term success.”

Media contact

Simon Downes, External Affairs Lead
[email protected]
+61 0401 461 503