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The growing role of the modern controller
As a controller, you’re a skilled tactician, adept at execution and efficiency. You lead a team that closes the books on time, produces accurate financial reports and supports compliance. Yet delivery is becoming more complex given expanded reporting requirements, continued cost pressure and talent shortages. Moving forward may require flexing more strengths — becoming a strategic advisor, technology implementer, talent recruiter and risk mitigator. Finance executives are well positioned to identify and improve operational and risk management, potentially reducing costs and enhancing profitability.
In the spotlight
Finance leaders move fast on AI — but not without caution
Nearly 6 in 10 (58%) CFOs and finance leaders are investing in AI and analytics to reimagine planning, forecasting and performance, according to PwC’s Pulse Survey. But they’re not charging ahead blindly. More than two-thirds (69%) view legal and reputational risks as moderate to serious. And 51% say talent gaps are a top-3 barrier. By managing near-term risks and unlocking long-term value, finance leaders are reshaping how decisions get made — and showing that finance can drive resilience and reinvention.
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58% of CFOs and finance leaders are investing in AI and analytics
Source: PwC Pulse Survey, May 2025
Where to focus in 2025
Regulation and compliance
Collaborate on evolving regulations
Today’s controllers face a complex regulatory environment. From new cybersecurity disclosures to sustainability-related reporting rules, you'll need to equip your organization to address new requirements. Controllers should stay alert to evolving rules given sweeping Pillar Two requirements for multinationals and possible new guardrails for the adoption of AI on the horizon.
While financial compliance remains your primary focus, consider how your longstanding expertise in this area may guide your actions around planning for regulatory change. Start by considering in-flight investments such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) upgrades to meet reporting needs. Build a digital foundation that can support multiple initiatives. By prioritizing simple, robust solutions, you can identify gaps — and make sure your tech isn’t too complex to safeguard.
Additional ways to collaborate on evolving regulations
Regulation and compliance
Risk and compliance reimagined: Unlock hidden savings and performance
Learn how organizations can cut costs and improve quality by reimagining risk management and compliance programs.
Financial reporting
A look at this quarter’s financial reporting matters
Get up to date with the latest accounting, financial reporting and regulatory updates to support your quarterly reporting.
Cybersecurity and privacy
The CFO’s role in SEC cyber disclosures
Find out the nine questions a CFO should consider to help their company produce accurate, well-reasoned and defensible cybersecurity disclosures.
61% of CFOs say global regulatory uncertainty is a moderate or serious risk to their company
Source: PwC Pulse Survey, October 2024
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