Automation and AI: The Future of Career Growth in AP
Growing Concerns for AP Professionals Amid Market Pressures
As uncertainty looms over job security for accounts payable (AP) professionals, many are becoming proactive in responding to these challenges. A recent survey by AvidXchange and the Institute of Finance and Management highlights significant concerns among 588 AP professionals regarding potential layoffs in upcoming years.
Increased Focus on Skill Development
In a notable shift, 45% of survey participants expressed worry about layoffs, up from 27% last year. This growing anxiety has prompted many AP professionals to reassess their roles and improve their skill sets. They aim to take on responsibilities that automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are less likely to replace. Efforts include:
- 53% have taken on additional projects to enhance job security, a jump from previous years.
- 59% are learning new technologies, focusing on automation and AI.
Despite their efforts, half of the respondents reported limited access to growth opportunities in their current positions, and only 40% feel they have a clear career advancement path.
Adapting to Uncertain Times
These job security concerns impact the way AP professionals approach their work-life balance. In the previous year, a significant 61% left a quarter or more of their paid time off unused, citing job security worries as a deterrent to taking time off.
The economic landscape further compounds these worries. According to AvidXchange's 2025 Economic Sentiment Survey, 86% of finance professionals are apprehensive about the economic outlook, with nearly half predicting a recession within a year. In response, many in AP are doubling down on skill enhancement and automation adoption as strategies to improve productivity and job security.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Dan Drees, President of AvidXchange, comments on this trend, stating, “Economic uncertainty is reshaping finance roles. AP professionals are stepping up, investing in skills, and leveraging automation to enhance their strategic contribution to businesses.”
Harnessing Automation for Career Advancement
The survey showed that many AP professionals hold an optimistic view of how automation can impact their work:
- 74% believe access to technological tools supports their career growth.
- 69% think automation will positively influence their current position.
- 72% are confident that automation will affect their career positively in the long run.
AI appears to be a promising ally in this process, with:
- 58% of professionals anticipating an immediate benefit from AI.
- 57% expecting long-term advancement in their careers due to AI.
By automating repetitive tasks, AP teams can redirect their focus toward strategic initiatives that contribute to their organizations' success.
Job Satisfaction Linked to Automation
Interestingly, there is a strong correlation between job satisfaction and the automation level within workplaces. Of the respondents who reported being "extremely satisfied" with their roles, 59% worked in environments that were largely automated. In contrast, only 2% were toiling away in completely manual setups.
Manual tasks remain a source of frustration, with AP professionals keen to eliminate various cumbersome processes, including:
- Manual invoice approvals (46%)
- Manual data entry (45%)
- Exception handling (39%)
Flexibility as a Key Retention Strategy
Retaining talent is becoming critical in this age of uncertainty. A notable 40% of AP professionals rated flexible working hours as essential. Automation facilitates this flexibility by allowing teams to operate without being bogged down by traditional paper processes, transforming what used to be a luxury into a necessity.
Building Stability Through Automation
AP automation stands out as a strategic resilience initiative. As professionals grapple with economic uncertainty and the demand for higher productivity, the integration of automation and AI becomes essential for sustaining morale and efficiency.
A real-world example of this transformation can be seen in the experiences of AvidXchange’s clients. Tairie Santana Mendez, a Property Accounting Specialist at Founders 3 Management Company, shared how automation has transformed her work. "Since adopting automation, we've drastically reduced the need for manual data entry, enabling the team to devote their efforts to higher-value tasks and fostering growth within the AP function,” she reflected.
In summary, as professionals navigate through demanding times, the focus on automation and AI in AP functions is not merely a trend but a vital pathway to securing a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What challenges are AP professionals facing?
AP professionals are increasingly concerned about job security, with many expecting layoffs in the near future, prompting them to enhance their skills.
How is automation affecting job roles in AP?
Automation is allowing AP professionals to focus on strategic tasks by relieving them of repetitive, manual processes, thereby improving job satisfaction.
What percentage of AP professionals believe in career growth through automation?
Approximately 74% of surveyed professionals feel that access to automation tools supports their career growth.
How is AI contributing to AP roles?
AI is enhancing roles by positively impacting current job functions and fostering long-term career growth for many AP professionals.
Why is flexibility important for AP professionals?
Flexible work options are essential for retention, especially in uncertain economic climates, and automation facilitates these flexible arrangements.
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