Finance and Accounting Technology Certificate
Transforming finance professionals into strategic technology leaders empowered to make the right finance technology decisions
In Partnership with
Become the go-to finance tech expert in your business
Make informed decisions to select the right technologies
Discover new tools that solve daily challenges
Save money on technology purchasing decisions
Stay abreast of new innovations
Enhance productivity & efficiency
of finance leaders are investing heavily in AI and finance technology this year
say they’re confident they have the knowledge to make the right decisions
Technology is changing the face of the finance function
A surge of new software tools led by AI, has created incredible opportunities for finance teams to:
- Streamline workflows
- Increase efficiency and reduce errors
- Get accurate-to-the-minute reporting
- Improve cashflow management
- Generate advanced financial forecasts
- Graphically represent insights with stakeholders
But 90% of finance teams feel under equipped and ill-prepared to make finance technology decisions because the market is moving so rapidly.
INTRODUCING
Finance and Accounting Technology Certificate
10 rigorous modules covering the full spectrum of technologies and AI in finance
1. Automation in Finance
Understand the opportunities—and challenges—in using new technologies and AI to improve compliance, reduce errors, and increase efficiency.
Mark Sue
CFO, Breathe Media Network & Project Leader, FATE Certification
2. Data Analytics and Insights
Improve decision making with data visualization and BI tools, enhancing financial analysis beyond spreadsheets. Understand how AI plugins & data integration optimize forecasting, budgeting, and real-time reporting.
Khaled Chowdhury
Principal, Data Crafters
3. Accounting Software & ERP
Compare, assess and evaluate accounting software, ERP systems, and third-party tools for optimized workflows. Gain hands-on experience with automation, advanced reporting, and AI-driven financial insights.
Ben Murray
SaaS CFO, Co-Founder, Extend
4. FP&A in the Era of AI
FP&A software provides unparalleled opportunities to automate routine tasks, provide real-time insights and enable more sophisticated forecasting.
Paul Barnhurst
Founder, The FP&A Guy
5. Digital Expense Management
Simplify expense tracking with automation and analytics for better accuracy and compliance. Improve efficiency, reporting, and workflow management.
Donny Shimamoto
Managing Director, IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC
6. Process Optimization & Workflow
Workflow automation enhances efficiency by streamlining tasks and improving decision-making. Optimize collaboration, reporting, and AI-driven analytics in finance.
Patti Zapparolli
Founder | Fractional COO, My OpsBox
7. Cybersecurity for the Finance Team and Beyond
Protects against threats like phishing and ransomware through encryption, MFA, and compliance. Strong defenses, incident response, and secure practices ensure data protection and business continuity.
Dennis Glendenning, MBA, CISSP
US Security Solutions Lead, BDO USA
8. Future Tech in Accounting & Finance
Once defined by compliance and reporting, tomorrow’s CFOs will lead technology strategy, data-driven capital allocation, and enterprise innovation. This course empowers finance leaders to anticipate technological disruption, reimagine their time and priorities, and design a roadmap for transforming finance from a control center into a strategic, tech-enabled powerhouse.
Randy Johnston
Partner, K2 Enterprises
9. HR Tech Platforms
HR software streamlines workforce management, payroll, recruiting, workforce analytics and compliance. Understand cloud vs. on-premise solutions, and full suite vs. best-of-breed solutions for integration with other depts.
Stacey Harris
Chief Research Officer & Managing Partner, Sapient Insights
10. Future Tech and Emerging Innovation in Accounting & Finance
Finance is shifting to AI-driven decision intelligence, leveraging blockchain, DeFi, and automation. CFOs adopt emerging tech for strategy, payments, and treasury transformation.
Glenn Hopper
Managing Director & Head of AI, VAI Consulting
Led by industry experts, the modules blend real-world case studies and direct experience with leading platforms.
Participants will gain hands-on experience and insights into the practical application of technologies in finance, allowing participants to implement their new knowledge immediately.
Upon completion, you will receive continuing education credits and the prestigious Finance and Accounting Tech Certificate, marking you as a distinguished leader in finance technology.
Become crucial to the technology decision-making roadmap in your organization.
As a Finance and Accounting Technology Certificate Graduate, you’ll understand the key considerations in evaluating, assessing, comparing and integrating technologies.
- Calculate the ROI of technology implementations
- Create secure digital transformation roadmaps
- Understand the risks and how to identify and prevent AI-powered financial fraud
- Protect your organization from emerging cyber threats
- Ensure compliance in an AI-enhanced environment
- Balance automation with human oversight
- Integrate new technologies with existing workflows
- Evaluate, compare and contrast technical solutions
- Deploy AI tools securely and effectively
Jerrae Williams
Strategic Advisor, Innovative Results Consulting
“Each module was directly relevant to my role and immediately applicable. The program expanded my understanding of today’s finance technology landscape and provided practical insight into improving day-to-day operations through smarter systems.”
Simon Turner
CFO, The Excel CFO
“The curriculum highlights how deeply finance and technology now intersect with every part of company operations. I especially appreciated the focus on the strategic how and why, not just the tools.”
Randy McKeel
CFO, Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
“The curriculum was easy to use, informative, and very timely. I liked being able to log in when I had time — the format made it convenient to move at my own pace. The program also gave a great overview of the AI tools currently being used across finance and accounting. Overall, it’s a certification I’d definitely recommend to peers.”
Who is this for?
- CFOs
- CEOs
- CPAs
- Controllers
- Management Accountants
- FP&A professionals
- IT Managers
- Budget Directors
- Purchasing Directors
- P2P Executives
- Accounts Payable Managers
- HR Directors
- Marketers
- Developers
This is the only tech training of its kind, custom-built to empower finance teams to make fully informed decisions about emerging technologies in finance.
This is hands-on, case-study based practical learning you cannot get in any university executive finance program.
Start Your Certificate Journey Today
Being Finance and Accounting Tech Certified is a hallmark of excellence in finance technology and is your ultimate competitive advantage in the job market.
- Elevate Your Career - enhance your expertise and set yourself apart from peers.
- Make the Right Decisions - have full confidence that you understand the wider implications of tech decisions for your business.
- Save Money - avoid wasted investments and implement the right tools that increase efficiency and reduce spend.
Finance & Accounting Technology Certificate
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10 training modules*
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Continuing education credits
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Finance & Accounting Technology Certificate
FAQ
What exactly is the FATE Certificate, and who is it designed for?
The Finance & Accounting Certificate is a high-level education course in the latest technology aimed at making the finance department more productive and cost-effective. It is designed for CFOs and other heads of finance such as vice presidents of finance and finance directors. But it also is aimed at other key finance positions such as controller, corporate accountant and directors of budgeting, FP&A, AP/AR and human resources.
What skills, tools, or knowledge will I gain from this certificate?
The certificate program will provide the finance executive with detailed knowledge of all the current software and hardware and new technologies such as artificial intelligence. It will enable these executives to assess how these technologies can best be deployed in their operations. It will also compare the features and benefits of the major technologies and vendors to enable senior executives to make informed purchasing decisions.
How will this help me advance in my finance or accounting career?
Finance department implementation of the latest technologies such as artificial intelligence is one of the most highly valued capabilities CEOs seek when hiring new finance and accounting leaders. The skill and knowledge generated by the certificate will enable finance executives to advance their companies in technology utilization, help their firms increase productivity and implement cost-effective operations. As a result of earning the certificate, all types of finance executives, from CFOs to controllers to corporate accountants, will have boosted their value to employers and expanded their professional opportunities.
What topics or technologies are covered?
The program includes 10 modules covering: Automation in Finance, Data Analytics & Insights in Finance, FP&A in the Era of A.I, Accounting Software & ERP Systems, Digital Expense Management, Process Optimization, Cybersecurity for Finance, AI in Finance, Advanced Finance Functions with Future Tech Tools, Optimizing Team Performance with HR Tech and AI.
How long does it take to complete?
Most finance executives will be able to complete the entire program in 10-20 hours.
Is it self-paced or live?
The course is completely virtual. Designed for busy finance executives to take at their own pace.
Will I earn CPE credits for this course?
Yes, there is one CPE earned for each hour devoted to the course. (10 total)
Who developed the curriculum—industry practitioners, academics, or both?
The curriculum was developed by the CFO Leadership Council working together with subject matter experts (SMEs) led by Mark Sue (link to profile). Mark is a well-regarded CFO and expert in finance & accounting technologies. He worked with other finance and accounting practitioners and technology experts to research, write and present the course.
How much does it cost, and are there discounts for groups?
The regular price for the course is $1695. There are discounts for multiple and group purchases.
What kind of certificate do I receive?
Everyone who successfully completes the course receives CFTE (Certificate Finance Tech Expert.)
Do I get a digital badge or certificate I can add to LinkedIn or my resume?
Yes, upcon completion participants will receive a PDF certificate that can be added to their LinkedIn profile and other career documents.
How do I make the case for certificate with my boss?
Organizations spend millions on new technology or replacing outdated software and hardware. Often, they are disappointed with the results promised by vendors. In addition, new technology with evolving applications comes on steam frequently. The Finance & Accounting Technology certificate will help organizations save time by screening and evaluating all the new tech and comparing vendors. It is also an effective tool in training key staff in how to select and apply AI and other tech to ongoing operations. In the short-and-long-term, the certificate will help your firm increase productivity, save on expenses and thus enhance profitability.
How often is the course updated?
The course is reviewed and updated on an ongoing basis, with new content incorporated into the modules every few months.
What happens after the certificate—are there continuing education or networking opportunities?
Yes. The annual Finance & Accounting Technology Expo features exhibits of all the latest products and technologies as well as 100 learning sessions and seminars. The certificate developers also offer periodic webinars and masterclasses in various aspects of new finance and accounting technology. Check out www.cfolc.com.
Is this certificate recognized by industry leaders or employers?
Many top organizations have recently enrolled their senior finance and accounting staff in the certificate training. Several major CFO and controller groups are beginning to offer the certificate program to their members.
Meet the Team
Behind every great certification is a team of innovators, educators, and finance professionals dedicated to your success. Get to know the experts driving the Finance & Accounting Technology Certificate—leaders who bring real-world experience, industry insight, and a shared passion for advancing the future of finance.
Mark Sue
CFO, Breathe Media Network
& Project Leader, FATE Certification
Mark Sue is the CFO at Strativ, where he leads financial strategy, capital deployment, and growth partnerships across a portfolio of high-growth ventures. With a background that spans Wall Street, corporate finance, and hands-on operational leadership, Mark brings a proven ability to scale companies, drive go-to-market acceleration, and align financial strategy with stakeholder priorities and business outcomes.
RD Whitney
President,
Chief Executive Group
With over 30 years of experience in creating and growing b2b communities, events and media businesses, RD is President at Chief Executive Group (CEG) and the Chief Operating Officer at CFO Leadership Council (a CEG company), both leading platforms for senior executives and finance leaders. RD is passionate about empowering members and solution providers through education, connection, and innovation—delivered via training, events, research, publishing, and certification.
Hope Russo
Marketing Lead,
FATE
We are proud to partner with Duke Executive Education and the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP). This collaboration brings together academic rigor and established finance leadership to support more informed evaluation of finance and accounting technology.
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