Andrew North addresses delegates
Doha: Andrew North, Country Managing Director of Protiviti Qatar spoke about the Digitalization of Finance Functions at a seminar held by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) at the Crowne Plaza Doha, with over 130 finance professionals and accountants present.
In a lively interactive talk, Mr. North demonstrated opportunities and threats from so-called 'disruptive technology'. He stressed the need for business to adapt, or risk the fate of global brands that failed to
respond and now no longer exist.
Qatar is one of the most technologically advanced countries and practical examples of Protiviti success were shared, ranging from digital strategy to robotic process automation and data analytics. North explained the current interest in blockchain technology and why it is relevant outside of Financial Services. He also addressed a downside of increased connectivity - Cyber Security, and the continued need for awareness and vigilance.
"Digitalizing processes relating to customers typically gives the most value," said North, adding. "We usually start with a short Digital Maturity Assessment before recommending which areas business
should focus on. Rather than changing the entire organization, we advocate adapting the process's which give the most value. This saves time and cost."
Chief Financial Officers (CFO's) and the Finance Department are prime candidates to benefit from digitalization. By using data analytics and visualization tools, actionable insights may be generated across all areas of organizations and subsidiaries. Mobile applications for Board level dashboards are proving their worth in enhanced real time decision making. Many internal finance processes can be automated, with automated decisions giving efficiency and better customer experience.
The seminar concluded with recognition of new ACCA joiners and prize giving.
Andrew North receives certificate from Lindsay Degouve De Nuncques, ACCA Head of Middle East
About Protiviti
Protiviti (www.protiviti.com) is a global consulting firm that delivers deep expertise, objective insights, a tailored approach and unparalleled collaboration to help leaders confidently face the future.
Through its network of more than 70 offices in over 20 countries, Protiviti and its independently owned Member Firms provide clients with consulting solutions in finance, technology, operations, data analytics,
governance, risk and internal audit.
Protiviti has served more than 60 percent of Fortune 1000 and 35 percent of Fortune Global 500 companies.
The firm also works with smaller, growing companies, including those looking to go public, as well as with government agencies.
In the Middle East Region Protiviti's member firm is a leading provider of business consulting, internal audit, risk management, technology, forensic and fraud investigation, human capital and transaction services.
Protiviti member firms are separate and independent legal entities, are not agents of other firms in the Protiviti network, and have no authority to obligate or bind other firms in the Protiviti network.
Protiviti is a wholly owned subsidiary of Robert Half (NYSE: RHI). Founded in 1948, Robert Half is a member of the S&P 500 index.
