Artificial intelligence is no longer just a technology of the future — it is actively transforming business processes today, replacing humans in routine tasks. According to research by FinancesOnline, many accounting and analytical tasks, from payroll calculations to risk management, are increasingly becoming automated. Aigerim Tleshova, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in finance and head of the investment department at the construction holding BI Group — one of the largest companies in Kazakhstan — discussed what skills modern professionals need to develop to maintain their positions in a rapidly changing world.
Aigerim Tleshova emphasizes that despite AI's ability to handle repetitive tasks faster, cheaper, and more efficiently, it lacks emotional intelligence, creativity, and deep contextual understanding. "It is precisely in these qualities that our strength lies," she highlighted.
According to Aigerim Tleshova, contemporary employers are looking for specialists who can not only accomplish tasks but also build effective relationships within teams. "The ability to listen and communicate with people is a characteristic that gives us the right to thrive in this world. In an era of widespread software usage, emotional intelligence is the most crucial skill today," she explained.
These qualities helped Aigerim Tleshova at the start of her career when she faced sabotage from subordinates. Instead of giving up in a challenging situation, she took an active stance: she moved her office closer to the team and established open communication. As a result, she not only retained the team but also enhanced its efficiency.
During her two years at the company, Aigerim Tleshova led a team of 12 finance specialists, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration. She implemented several specific practices, including in-depth financial analysis, regular evaluation of key performance indicators, and close interaction with 10 operational departments during budget planning. Additionally, Aigerim Tleshova initiated the implementation of an Integrated Management System (IMS) that encompassed all business processes. This approach led to an 18% increase in productivity, a 15% reduction in operational costs, and achieved a budgeting accuracy of 95%, demonstrating to finance professionals that the effective use of analytical tools and systematic resource management can yield significant results even amid growing automation.
Aigerim Tleshova believes that in a world where information is accessible to everyone, deep expertise is valued over superficial knowledge. "Today, those who are willing to delve deeply into their field and become experts in a narrow niche win. Whether it's programming, marketing, or medicine — a profound understanding of processes gives you an edge over competitors," she noted.
The willingness to make learning a part of life also plays a key role. "There is a chance that the skills you consider essential will become outdated in a year. However, if you remain flexible, these changes can become a stimulus for growth rather than a threat," Aigerim Tleshova believes.
Her commitment to continuous development and learning enabled her to successfully implement an automated management accounting system at BI Group. Based on IBM Cognos and 1C 3.0, a unified platform was created to provide consolidated management reporting and project-oriented accounting for the BI Group companies and all holding projects. This large-scale transformation made BI Group the only holding in the CIS to fully transition to project-oriented accounting, significantly simplifying budgeting and forecasting processes and strengthening the company's competitive position.
Another key factor for remaining in demand in the age of AI is the ability to think creatively and find unconventional solutions. Aigerim Tleshova notes that while machines operate within logical frameworks, humans can think outside those boundaries.
"Creativity, the ability to see opportunities where others see obstacles, is our greatest asset. Seek unconventional solutions, experiment, and combine ideas from different fields. Creative thinking cannot be automated, which means it will always be valued," she explained.
For instance, Aigerim Tleshova developed a new approach to resource management by implementing automated reservation of retained earnings in reserve fund accounts. Traditionally, this task required significant manual effort, but thanks to system integration and process optimization, processing time was reduced by 40%, and accuracy reached 99%. This step not only goes beyond standard solutions but also clearly demonstrates that even amidst rapid technological progress, a person can view a task more broadly and find a more efficient path.
Aigerim Tleshova employs innovative calculation models to make decisions that help businesses improve operational metrics and remain competitive in a fast-paced technological landscape.
"Technology is merely a tool that can make us stronger," the specialist emphasizes.
She is convinced that the key in the age of AI is the readiness for change, the development of unique qualities, and openness to new ideas. "Do not fear change and look to the future with confidence! After all, the future belongs to those who can adapt," Aigerim Tleshova concluded.