In a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, Mike San Diego, Certified Financial Consultant and CFO of EON Group, isn’t waiting on the sidelines—he’s leaning in.
“It is very important to look at how business and functions are innovating and transforming… and how you can participate and benefit,” San Diego told Financial Adviser PH.
As a CFO in a communications consultancy that serves clients across different sectors, San Diego sees firsthand how innovation is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. And while many finance professionals are wary of AI replacing roles or disrupting workflows, he believes the smarter approach is to embrace the shift and evolve with it.
For San Diego, preparing for the age of AI means going beyond traditional financial expertise. It requires keeping an open mind, understanding emerging technologies, and aligning them with the company’s strategic goals. “AI isn’t something to fear,” he says. “It’s something to explore. You have to look at where it can streamline your processes, improve your decision-making, and enhance the way you deliver value.”
That includes evaluating how automation can optimize reporting, data analytics, and forecasting—functions that are central to the CFO’s role. “You don’t become obsolete when AI enters the picture. You become more effective—if you know how to work with it.”
San Diego also emphasizes the need for finance leaders to step up as change agents within their organizations. “It’s not just about adopting tools,” he explains. “It’s about encouraging innovation in the teams you lead and helping others see where transformation can unlock new opportunities.”
His advice? Stay curious, keep learning, and be proactive. “You don’t wait for innovation to happen to you. You look for ways to participate and benefit.”
As technology continues to accelerate, San Diego’s message is clear: AI is inevitable—but irrelevance isn’t. With the right mindset, finance professionals can not only stay competitive—they can lead the charge.
