Finance at the speed of change: Key takeaways for tech CFOs in the age of artificial intelligence (AI)

Finance professionals at SaaS and tech companies are navigating a period of rapid transformation, driven in large part by the accelerating impact of AI.

As technology reshapes everything from forecasting to financial operations, staying ahead requires more than technical fluency; it demands strategic agility and cross-functional insight. At recent SaaS industry events, including Baker Tilly’s Technology Finance Symposium, speakers explored the evolving role of finance leaders in this dynamic environment.

From AI integration to valuation shifts, here are 10 key takeaways this Spring that every finance leader in tech should know.

1. Finance must master both hindsight and foresight to lead effectively

Today’s finance leaders need to deliver more than clean books – they must provide a clear view of what’s ahead. Robust historical reporting (audited financials, flux analysis, quote-to-cash reviews) builds trust, while forward-looking forecasts (by product, pipeline, scenario) guide strategic decisions. Weekly internal metrics and cross-functional insights help detect issues early and align teams. The most effective CFOs blend operational detail with strategic vision, using data not just to explain the past, but to shape the future.

2. AI in finance: Start with the problem, not the hype

Despite the buzz, AI adoption in finance remains uneven – especially for generative tools. Success hinges on solving real business problems, not chasing flashy technology. You can’t simply “throw everything” at AI and let the technology do the rest. The most effective initiatives start with clear goals, strong leadership and a willingness to rethink workflows. Failures often stem from poor alignment, lack of user input and overconfidence in data and tools. Finance leaders should focus on measurable impact and cross-functional collaboration to make AI reach its true potential.

3. Alignment requires more than agreement – it demands shared ownership

In SaaS companies, true alignment between finance and go-to-market teams goes beyond agreeing on targets – it requires a shared understanding of how those targets are built and whether they’re realistically achievable. “Faux alignment,” where teams passively accept top-down goals without buy-in, can derail execution. Real alignment is forged through collaborative planning across finance, sales, marketing and customer success, where goals, metrics and resource needs are co-created. This shared ownership fosters accountability, improves forecasting accuracy, and ensures that strategic plans are grounded in operational reality.