The FP&A Guy Network

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper welcome Alex Curran, CEO of Aptitude Software, to discuss AI-native ERP, the changing role of CFOs, and how finance teams can prepare for AI adoption. Alex explains why strong data foundations, flexible architecture, and real-time finance systems are becoming essential.

Alex Curran is the CEO of Aptitude Software, a company with decades of experience building finance solutions for complex organizations. After more than 12 years at Aptitude, Alex became CEO in late 2023 and now leads the company’s focus on AI-native finance technology, including the Fynapse platform.

In this episode, you will discover:

• Why CFOs are becoming strategic partners in business decisions.
• Why clean, detailed data is essential for effective AI adoption.
• What makes an ERP system truly AI-native.
• How CFOs can evaluate legacy and newer AI-native ERP platforms.
• Why flexible AI models and real-time finance are becoming more important.

Alex explains that successful AI adoption requires more than adding AI features to existing finance systems. Organizations need the right data and architecture to support changing AI technologies while meeting complex finance requirements.

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow Alex:

Website: http://fynapse.app/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-curran-9aa593b/

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[00:56] – Meet Alex Curran

[02:32] – Aptitude Software and Fynapse

[05:16] – The Changing CFO Role

[07:03] – Finance’s Data Problem

[10:53] – AI-Native Finance Systems

[14:33] – Evaluating ERP Options

[17:32] – The Future of AI-Native ERP

[18:59] – Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Ryan Humphrey about financial model auditing, the skills strong modelers need, and how AI is changing the profession. Ryan explains why communication, judgment, and independence matter alongside technical ability. He also shares how model audits work, why poorly structured models create risks, and how AI could shift financial modelers from building models toward reviewing and refining them.

Ryan Humphrey is a Partner at Forvis Mazars in London, specializing in financial model audits, including accounting and tax reviews. A qualified chartered accountant, he contributed to How to Review a Spreadsheet and co-authored Credible Model Audit for the AI Era. He is also conducting research with Cambridge University in sustainability leadership and is an advocate for the energy transition.

Expect to Learn:

• Why communication is essential in financial modeling
• How independent financial model audits support major investment decisions
• Why human judgment remains critical as AI improves
• How AI could shift financial modelers from building to reviewing
• Why continuous learning is increasingly important in the AI era

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “The model really is... a communication vector more than anything. It's about telling a story.” - Ryan Humphrey
• “What cannot be replaced is judgement.” - Ryan Humphrey

AI is becoming increasingly capable of understanding and building spreadsheets, but credible-looking outputs can still contain errors. As AI takes on more of the technical building process, financial modelers will need to focus even more on judgment, review, communication, and understanding what a model is designed to accomplish.

Follow Ryan:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rchumphrey/

Website: https://www.forvismazars.com/uk/en/users/our-team/ryan-humphrey

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqW

In Today's Episode:

[02:31] - Why Communication Matters in Financial Modeling

[05:14] - Ryan’s Financial Model Audit Nightmare

[08:29] - How Financial Model Audits Work

[10:18] - What Model Auditors Actually Validate

[12:50] - Essential Skills for Model Auditors

[16:45] - How AI Is Changing Financial Model Audits

[19:26] - The Risks of Credible-Looking AI Models

[20:45] - Moving From Model Building to Model Reviewing

[21:25] - Continuous Learning and Final Advice

In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Nitesh Mukhi, Rohit Menon, and Sweta Jhalani to discuss how AI is transforming the FP&A profession and changing the way finance teams work. The guests share their experiences with the AI FP&A Programme, exploring practical AI applications, automation, financial analysis, and the skills finance professionals need to stay ahead. They also discuss why domain expertise, human judgment, and business understanding remain essential in an AI-driven finance world.

Nitesh Mukhi is the Finance Director at Presight AI, an AI analytics and big data analytics company in Abu Dhabi, with over two decades of experience across auditing, financial analysis, treasury, and FP&A roles at companies including Schlumberger, FedEx, and KPMG. Rohit Menon is a Regional Finance professional at Bioltec with more than 19 years of experience across multinational companies, focusing on finance transformation and developing FP&A capabilities. Sweta Jhalani is a Chartered Accountant and FP&A Manager based in India who transitioned from audit into FP&A, building experience in financial planning, analysis, and business partnering

Expect to Learn:

• How AI is transforming FP&A workflows
• Practical finance use cases for AI tools
• The importance of financial modelling and business partnering
• Why human judgment remains critical in AI adoption
• Building the skills needed for the future of finance

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “AI is an enabler. It's going to enhance your work, and I think it's going to help you in your day-to-day work.” - Nitesh Mukhi
• “AI is not the solution to each and every problem.” - Sweta Jhalani

AI is changing the way finance professionals approach their work, but the fundamentals of finance remain important. The ability to understand business needs, interpret data, communicate insights, and apply human judgment will continue to separate great FP&A professionals from the rest.

Follow Nitesh:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nitesh-mukhi-7504456/

Follow Rohit:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohit-menon1984/

Follow Sweta:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caswetajhalani/

Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) uses AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review.

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today's Episode:

[00:00] - Introduction

[01:21] - Guest Introductions

[04:09] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[07:17] - Why They Joined the AI FP&A Programme

[12:06] - Inside the AI FP&A Programme

[14:35] - Real-World AI Use Cases

[17:15] - Key Lessons From the Programme

[22:11] - The Reality of AI in Finance

[30:14] - AI Projects and Applications

[34:03] - Advice for Finance Professionals

[36:50] - The Future of AI in FP&A

[40:21] - Essential FP&A Skills

[43:34] - Skills Needed for AI Success

[46:36] - Quick-Fire Questions

[52:20] - Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper welcome Alex Curran, CEO of Aptitude Software, to discuss the future of finance systems, AI-native ERP, and how organizations can prepare their finance functions for a rapidly changing technology landscape. Alex shares how finance teams can move beyond outdated systems, improve data foundations, and use AI to enable faster, more informed decision-making.

Alex Curran is the CEO of Aptitude Software, a company that has spent over 40 years building finance solutions for complex organizations. After joining Aptitude over 12 years ago, Alex progressed through multiple leadership roles before becoming CEO in 2023. She now leads the company’s focus on AI-native finance technology and modern ERP solutions.

In this episode, you will discover:

• Why CFOs are expected to become strategic partners in business decisions.
• Why clean data and strong architecture are essential for successful AI adoption.
• How AI-native ERP systems differ from traditional finance platforms.
• Why real-time finance and continuous close are becoming possible.
• How AI will change finance roles and create new opportunities.

Alex explains why the future of finance is not just about adding AI tools, but about building the right systems, data foundations, and processes to make AI valuable and trustworthy.

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow Alex:

Website: http://fynapse.app/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-curran-9aa593b/

Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review.

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[00:00] – Trailer

[05:22] – The Modern CFO Role

[11:36] – Building Flexible AI Systems

[15:16] – Evaluating ERP Solutions

[19:08] – Legacy ERP vs AI-Native ERP

[23:39] – Real-Time Finance & Continuous Close

[27:02] – AI’s Impact on Finance Teams

[30:24] – The Future of Accountants

[35:44] – AI Questions & Leadership Lessons

[36:53] – Finance System Implementation Challenges

[38:40] – Alex’s CEO Journey

[40:04] – Closing Thoughts on Finance’s Future

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Ryan Humphrey about financial model auditing, the skills strong modelers need, and how AI is changing the profession. Ryan explains why communication, judgment, and trust matter as much as technical ability. He also shares how model audits work, why poorly structured models create serious risks, and why finance professionals must continue developing their skills as AI takes on more of the building process.

Ryan Humphrey is a Partner at Forvis Mazars in London, specializing in accounting, tax reviews, and financial model audits. A qualified chartered accountant, he co-authored Credible Model Audit for the AI Era and is currently researching sustainability leadership with Cambridge University.

Expect to Learn:

• Why communication is essential in financial modeling
• How independent model audits support better decisions
• Why human judgement remains critical in the AI era
• How AI may shift modelers from building to reviewing
• Why trust and continuous learning are becoming more valuable

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "The model really is a communication vector more than anything. It is about telling a story." - Ryan Humphrey
• "Trust becomes so important because things can look right very quickly, even when they are not." - Ryan Humphrey

AI may make financial models faster to build, but it also makes careful review more important. The future belongs to professionals who can combine technical knowledge with judgement, communication, and trusted decision-making.

Follow Ryan:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rchumphrey/

Website: https://www.forvismazars.com/uk/en/users/our-team/ryan-humphrey

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/

Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review.

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqW

In Today's Episode:

[00:00] -Trailer

[05:16] - Why Communication Matters

[06:45] - AI and the Future of Modeling Careers

[08:50] - Ryan’s Model Audit Nightmare

[12:26] - How Financial Model Audits Work

[17:36] - Essential Skills for Model Auditors

[21:35] - How AI Is Changing Model Audits

[27:54] - The Growing Importance of Trust

[32:34] - Why Continuous Learning Matters

[37:30] - Excel Preferences and Shortcuts

[41:30] - Rapid-Fire Modeling Questions

[47:35] - Final Advice for Financial Modelers

In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by AI Finance Club members Eve Reiter, Jurgen Lang, and Bukie Faforiji for a discussion on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of FP&A. The panel shares how AI has changed the way they approach financial modeling, forecasting, automation, business partnering, and software development. From replacing repetitive Excel work with AI-powered workflows to building production-ready finance applications, they explore the practical skills finance professionals need to stay relevant in an AI-first world.

Eve Reiter is a global procurement leader and AI advocate with experience at Amazon, American Express, and State Street. Jurgen Lang is a Hamburg-based fractional CFO specializing in SaaS, sports, hospitality, and technology, with more than 15 years of finance experience. Bukie Faforiji is an FP&A professional and creator of CFO Intel, an AI-powered platform that delivers transparent and auditable financial insights.

Expect to Learn:

• How AI is changing the day-to-day work of FP&A professionals.
• Why critical thinking and domain expertise matter more than ever in an AI-driven world.
• How finance leaders are using AI to automate workflows and build custom finance tools.
• What the AI Finance Club offers finance professionals looking to upskill.
• The opportunities,and risks, that AI creates for the future of finance careers.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “If nobody can act on the information, then the work has failed.” - Jurgen Lang
• “The best way to learn is to share.” - BukieFaforiji
• “You are not just consuming in a community. You are also contributing.” - BukieFaforiji

AI is reshaping FP&A by reducing manual work, accelerating analysis, and helping finance professionals build more powerful workflows and tools. However, domain expertise, critical thinking, governance, and human judgement remain essential for producing reliable, defensible results. Finance professionals who actively develop these skills will be better prepared for an AI-driven future.

Follow Eve Reiter:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evereiter/

Follow Jurgen Lang:

• LinkedIn: https:www.linkedin.com/in/jurgenlang/

Follow Bukie Faforiji:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bukie-faforiji/

Learn More About the AI Finance Club:

• Website: https://www.aifinanceclub.com

Join the AI Finance Club

The top global finance community with over 3,500 members. Advance your AI and FP&A skills through exclusive training, expert-led sessions, and a global network of finance professionals. Visit the AI Finance Club – Nicolas Boucher | Advance Your Finance Skills Today. The FP&A Guy and use code YNVTUWKG to get $100 OFF your membership.

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode:

[00:00] - Trailer

[06:43] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[11:01] - Inside the AI Finance Club Community

[13:41] - Why the Guests Joined the AI Finance Club

[19:08] - Moving from Excel to AI-Powered Workflows

[23:24] - The Most Impactful AI Projects They Have Built

[32:19] - How to Get More Value from AI Communities

[42:27] - The Opportunities and Risks of AI in Finance

[52:18] - The Essential Skills Every FP&A Professional Needs

[01:01:33] - Quick-Fire Questions and Final Advice

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper welcome Robert Collie to discuss artificial intelligence, data analytics, and the future of work. Robert shares his journey from helping build Power Pivot and Power BI at Microsoft to founding P3 Adaptive. He explains how AI is changing the role of finance and data professionals, why strong data foundations still matter, and why continuous learning is essential in an AI-driven world.

Robert Collie is the founder and CEO of P3 Adaptive, a Microsoft analytics and AI consulting firm. During his 13 years at Microsoft, he helped lead the development of Power Pivot and Power BI. He is also the author of Power Pivot and Power BI and the upcoming book Fair Game: Customizing AI to Your Business Is Easier Than You Think.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How Power Pivot and Power BI transformed data analytics.
• Why AI is creating new opportunities for finance professionals.
• Why adapting skills is critical in the AI era.
• How businesses can make AI practical and accessible.

Robert shares practical insights on combining data expertise, AI, and human judgment to create value in the future of work.

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow Robert:

Website: https://p3adaptive.com/

Book: https://fairgamebook.ai/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robcollie/

In Today’s Episode:

[03:58] - Building Power Pivot and Power BI at Microsoft

[08:56] - Leaving Microsoft and Founding P3 Adaptive

[13:36] - AI and the Future of Work

[17:13] - Introducing Fair Game

[19:41] - Making AI Practical and Accessible

[21:31] - Helping Everyone Understand AI

In this episode of The ModSquad, Paul Barnhurst, Giles Male, and Ian Schnoor are joined by Excel and Financial Modeling World Champions Michael Jarman and Diarmuid Early to discuss a unique “man versus machine” financial modeling challenge.

The group breaks down their experience testing AI against expert modelers using real financial modeling and Excel competition cases. They explore where AI performs well, where human judgment still matters, and what the future of financial modeling may look like as AI tools continue to improve.

Expect to Learn

• How AI compares against expert financial modelers in real-world challenges
• Where AI adds value and where human judgment remains essential
• Why reviewing and validating AI-generated models is becoming more important
• How AI tools are changing the future role of financial modelers
• Why strong modeling fundamentals still matter in an AI-driven world

• “AI can build something quick, but if you want it to be right, often the majority of the time is in checking it.” - Michael Jarman
• “The most interesting question is how do you get from something that works to something you actually feel confident in.” - Diarmuid Early

AI is changing the way financial models are built, reviewed, and improved. While AI can increase speed and efficiency, the best results still come from professionals who understand modeling principles, question outputs, and apply human judgement. The future belongs to modelers who can combine technology with expertise.

Follow Ian:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/

Follow Giles:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/

Follow Michael Jarman:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-jarman-excel/

Follow Diarmuid Early:

In today’s episode:

[00:00] – Trailer

[03:59] – Setting Up the Competition

[09:50] – AI Competition Commentary

[13:02] – Shortcut vs Human Results

[16:17] – AI Review Agents

[20:11] – Trusting AI Models

[29:41] – Future of AI Agents

[33:13] – Human Oversight in AI

[41:27] – Real-World Modeling Challenges

[45:54] – Beyond AI Prompting

[47:50] – Future of Financial Modeling

[53:20] – Closing Thoughts

In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Snyder sit down with Josette Ferrer to discuss one of the most overlooked skills in finance: networking. While many finance professionals focus on technical expertise, Josette explains why building genuine relationships is essential for career growth, leadership development, mentorship, and long-term success.

Josette Ferrer is the Founder and Managing Director of Clairent Advisors, a valuation and business advisory firm specializing in business and intellectual property valuations. She also serves as President of the San Francisco Bay Area chapter of Financial Executives International (FEI) and is actively involved with organizations including How Women Lead, ProVisors, the American Society of Appraisers, and several executive leadership communities.

Expect to Learn:

• Why networking should start long before you need your next opportunity
• How to choose the right networking organizations for your career goals
• Simple strategies introverts can use to build meaningful professional relationships
• Why mentoring and networking naturally go hand in hand

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Networking isn’t transactional, it’s about giving, helping, and building relationships." - Josette Ferrer
• "You don’t need a title to add value; small gestures can create lasting connections." - Josette Ferrer

Networking is a crucial skill for FP&A professionals, enabling stronger relationships, mentorship, and career growth. Starting early and engaging genuinely helps build trust and opportunities over time. Remember, networking is about giving and adding value, not just seeking benefits for yourself.

Follow Josette Ferrer:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josetteferrer/

Follow Glenn Snyder:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennsnyder/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

[00:00] – Trailer

[04:22] – What Great FP&A Looks Like

[12:36] – Choosing the Right Networking Group

[21:23] – Why You Should Start Networking Early

[27:39] – Building and Maintaining Your Professional Network

[33:18] – Networking Strategies for Introverts

[41:21] – The Power of Mentorship

[52:05] – Final Networking Advice for Finance Professionals

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper welcome Robert Collie, founder and CEO of P3 Adaptive, for a conversation about artificial intelligence, data analytics, and how finance professionals can prepare for the future of work. Robert shares his journey from helping build Power BI at Microsoft to founding P3 Adaptive and explains why AI is creating both disruption and new opportunities for finance and data professionals.

Robert Collie is the founder and CEO of P3 Adaptive, a Microsoft analytics and AI consulting firm. During his 13 years at Microsoft, Robert helped lead the development of Power Pivot and Power BI. He is also the author of the bestselling Power Pivot and Power BI book and hosts the Raw Data with Rob Collie podcast. His upcoming book, Fair Game: Customizing AI to Your Business is Easier Than You Think, explores how organizations can make AI practical and accessible.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How Power BI and Power Pivot changed the way organizations use data.
• Why AI is creating new opportunities for finance and data professionals.
• Why sitting still with current skills can create career risks.
• How companies can build AI systems using strong data foundations.
• Why semantic models are becoming essential for AI adoption.

Robert brings decades of experience in business intelligence, analytics, and AI, sharing practical lessons on how finance leaders and data professionals can adapt, learn, and create value in a rapidly changing environment.

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow Robert:

Website: https://p3adaptive.com/

Book: https://fairgamebook.ai/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robcollie/

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[00:00] – Trailer

[00:00] – How AI is changing jobs

[02:43] – Robert’s Microsoft journey

[06:06] – Power BI and Power Pivot impact

[11:25] – Leaving Microsoft for P3 Adaptive

[15:43] – AI and the future of data work

[19:33] – Making AI accessible

[25:13] – AI tools and better workflows

[31:11] – AI in career planning

[33:38] – AI changing finance and consulting

[35:16] – Why semantic models matter

[38:35] – Building a strong company culture

[40:34] – Robert’s AI book and future plans