15/10/2025
“AI won’t just change how we work — it will change who works.”
Yesterday, I attended The CIPFA ‘Public Finance Live’ conference in Belfast where artificial intelligence featured on the agenda — particularly its growing influence on the workplace. Much of the discussion focused on how, when implemented thoughtfully, AI can enhance productivity and overall job satisfaction. Anyone who has seen the time saved by automating repetitive, low-value tasks will appreciate its potential.
At the same time, there was a healthy debate around the challenges. What happens when AI begins to replace not just tasks, but entire roles — enabling one person to do the work of ten, twenty, or even fifty others?
The parallels with the Industrial Revolution are hard to ignore. That era created enormous wealth for some while fundamentally reshaping industries and livelihoods. I can’t help but feel that AI will follow a similar path. As before, those who thrive will likely be the ones who combine adaptability, ownership, and entrepreneurial spirit.
One of the key takeaways from the conference was that soft skills — creativity, communication, empathy, and adaptability — will soon outweigh traditional qualifications. While AI may enhance certain aspects of my own work without major disruption, I can’t help but think about my children as they begin their careers. Many of today’s entry-level roles may be reshaped — or even replaced — by machines, especially in environments like the U.S. where innovation often races ahead of regulation.
How do you see AI reshaping the balance between human skills and automation in your own industry
