Findings from accountancy and book keeping platform Intuit QuickBooks, revealed that around 90% said they will be better equipped to use AI compared to future managers or senior colleagues.

The survey drew responses from more than 1000 early-career accountants and finance professionals, finding that only 12% believe they should wait for senior managers to lead the way in AI usage compared to 52% who believe their future career success will depend on it.

It also found that the early career employees lacked the appropriate soft skills, despite being well-versed in using AI.

It has resulted in many professional services firms changing their training to prioritise soft skills learning for junior team members from critical thinking, communication and emotional intelligence.

Glenn Collins, head of technical and strategic engagement, ACCA UK, said: “Ensuring the right skills are developed is critical…. Critical thinking, sceptical validation and contextual storytelling are essential to reduce automation bias, anchoring bias and deskilling risks.”

“Ultimately, organisations need to ensure growing confidence with AI is matched by responsible use, so that new technology translates into meaningful value for businesses,” he added.