AAT Research Shows AI Can Enhance Rather Than Replace Accountancy Roles
New data released by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) has dispelled fears that artificial intelligence (AI) could replace accountancy roles across the profession. The results, published on Thursday 31 July 2025, reinforce the potential of AI to enhance the accounting profession.
The research, conducted by AAT, shows that automating mundane tasks could actually broaden the appeal of the profession. In fact, 40% of people surveyed stated they would consider a career change to accountancy if AI could replace routine tasks. Additionally, 78% of accountants already in the profession agreed that automation would make their jobs easier, freeing them up from administrative burdens. This would enable them to support businesses with strategic advice and problem-solving.
The survey also revealed that among professionals who currently work, or have previously worked in accountancy, 42% have found AI tools to be genuinely useful in their roles. This figure increases to 55% among 25-34 year olds.
Contrary to public perception fears, AI is overwhelmingly regarded as an enabler, with 64% of respondents believing AI tools will enhance efficiency and accuracy in the accounting profession. Furthermore, 63% of respondents agreed that AI would free up finance professionals to concentrate on high-impact activities.
AAT Executive Director of Customer, Partnerships and Innovation Claire Bennison stated, “There’s a persistent narrative that AI is here to replace accountants, but it actually has the potential to empower them. With the right skills and support, AI can be an enabler of success, building a more dynamic, inclusive, and tech-enabled finance profession that is truly future-ready.”
The survey also addressed the growing talent shortage in the profession, with Skills England identifying ‘Accounting and Finance Technicians’ as one of the 10 most critically in-demand occupations in 2024. The results showed that 20% of accountants who have left the profession would return if automation could remove the more administrative aspects of the job.
Bennison added, “AI is seen as a valuable tool by the majority of professionals and has the potential to both attract and retain talent for employers. We can future proof the profession by lowering barriers to access to enable the right training.”
In the wider population, the survey found that 78% of people are interested in upskilling due to the rise of AI at work. Among younger professionals, this intent is even higher, with 40% of those aged 25-34 wanting to develop skills in AI and machine learning.
The survey also revealed that 71% of respondents believe that individuals using AI tools must be appropriately trained. AAT’s qualifications are already evolving to meet this demand, with the aim of shaping a future-ready workforce in an AI-enhanced economy.
Bennison concluded, “A properly trained, AI-savvy workforce isn’t just good for business – it’s essential. The accounting field is advancing rapidly and our mission is to support people adopt and adapt to AI through practical, accessible programmes.”
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Notes to editors
* Skills England: Occupations in demand 2024
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AAT course leader at Sheffield College, Dean Quartermarine, who has first-hand experience on the impact AI is having on the profession as well as the impressions for future students. He says:
“AI is not here to replace accountants; it’s here to empower us. AI can handle repetitive tasks like data entry, freeing us to focus on delivering critical insights and driving informed decision-making. Accountants are strategic business partners and at Sheffield College, I encourage my students to embrace AI tools to realise this. While some students express concerns about AI, there is certainly momentum in using it as a powerful addition to their toolkit, paving the way for a more impactful role in the future of accounting.”
Laraine, a 40-year-old finance coordinator from Aberdeen, transitioned from retail and engineering to an accounting career through AAT’s Level 4 apprenticeship. Now studying applied data analytics at the University of Highlands and Islands and currently in her third finance role, she says it has been transformed by AI:
“AI has transformed my work as a finance coordinator, making payment processing faster and freeing me up to engage more with clients and explain finance to non-finance teams. It’s not something to fear – it’s a tool that enhances our efficiency, and as accountants, we need to adapt and embrace this evolution to focus on strategy and growth.”
Images: Claire Bennison, AAT Executive Director of Customer, Partnerships and Innovation and infographic showing key survey data.
About AAT:
The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) is the voice of the accounting technicians and bookkeepers in the UK. The charity was
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.