The role of AI in transforming finance is undeniable and finance leaders today need more than just traditional tools to stay competitive - they need to future-proof their finance functions with AI-driven solutions.
Join us at our upcoming workshop at the CFO Summit in Boston (October 8), Future-proofing Finance with AI-driven Cloud Solutions, where a top industry expert will break down exactly how AI is transforming finance. From automating routine tasks to driving strategic decision-making, you'll learn how AI is reshaping everything from forecasting to risk management.
One of our featured speakers is Tom Kelly, Sr. Director of Product Marketing/Management for Oracle NetSuite’s Global Business Unit, responsible for Global Cloud Financials. With his extensive experience spanning Fortune 500 companies like PepsiCo and eFunds, as well as high-growth startups, Tom brings a wealth of knowledge on leveraging cloud and AI solutions to optimize financial operations.
We caught up with Tom to learn more about his journey and get a sneak peek into his session, where he’ll be sharing how AI-driven cloud solutions are transforming finance functions for the future.👇
Hi Tom, welcome to the CFO Summit Speaker Spotlight series! Can you tell us about yourself?
My background, while extensive, is not traditional. As a native New Yorker, I went down south on a scholarship to play baseball and obtain an accounting degree from NC State. After a year in the minor leagues, I couldn't pass up the opportunity for a career in accounting and spent two years in public accounting. I then joined a premier finance and marketing company – PepsiCo.
It was there that I embraced and honed my skills in finance, technology, human resources, operations and marketing and found my passion for improving business and making things better no matter how big or small.
An early adopter on leveraging the Cloud, I use my leadership and transformation skills to turn strategy and vision into reality. At Oracle NetSuite, I am storyteller, product marketer and product strategist, helping define product offerings, competitive positioning, messaging, go to market strategy and analyst relations.
Prior to joining Oracle NetSuite, I ran my own business T-Edward, Inc., a strategic and operational Cloud consultancy providing CXO services and Cloud expertise.
What will you be speaking about at our event?
I will explore how AI is reshaping financial operations and strategies. Attendees will learn practical steps to integrate AI tools, enhance decision-making, and safeguard against future challenges. I will also share success stories from leaders who have effectively future-proofed their finance functions and discovered how to turn AI-driven change into a competitive advantage.
Finance Alliance
What is the key takeaway you hope attendees will gain from your presentation?
That you actually can teach an old dog new tricks….
Who is your ideal attendee for this event?
Accounting and finance professionals. I will provide insight to where accounting/finance is going, the vision, strategy and tactics to get there and how AI can be their friend and not their enemy.
What are you looking forward to the most about the event?
Making everyone’s day!
Can you provide a brief teaser of what attendees can expect from your presentation?
I plan on evoking both laughter and tears from the audience in a powerful achievement in storytelling and performance.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Maya Angelou: People will not always remember what you said or did, but they will always remember how you made them feel.
Finance Alliance
What advice would you give to young professionals starting out in the finance industry?
An adaptation of a quote attributed to Mark Twain: Good decisions come from experience. But experience comes from bad decisions. This is life so, never regret. Learn from mistakes and move forward.
How can attendees connect with you after the event to learn more?
You can connect with Tom via his LinkedIn account.
About Tom
Tom Kelly is the Sr. Director Product Marketing/Management for the Oracle NetSuite Global Business Unit, responsible for Global Cloud Financials. Before joining Oracle NetSuite, Tom founded T-Edward, a strategic and operational cloud consultancy providing cloud expertise and CXO services from companies in the Fortune 500 to start-ups.
Prior to T-Edward, Tom held a variety of executive financial and technology related positions with large cap companies including PepsiCo, eFunds and Deluxe Corporation, as well as small cap, privately held entities such as FullContact and PeopleNet Communications.
Join the CFO Summit Boston!
Break free from the daily grind and join us at the CFO Summit in Boston on October 8, 2024.
CFO Summit is an exclusive, invite-only gathering of senior finance leaders who come together to share success stories and industry insights to work through the prevailing challenges facing CFOs today.
- Pick the brains of seasoned decision-makers to hone your financial strategy.
- Revitalize and find inspiration by taking a break from the daily routine.
- Absorb knowledge from leading CFOs and understand market-shifting trends.
- Unite with your peers and establish new connections.
