In this CFO Edge interview, Ali Mehfooz, Group Financial Controller at Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, explains how he works closely with the technology team to drive transformation across the organisation.

Moving from a different industry into banking presents both challenges and opportunities, but Ali notes that the fundamentals remain the same: success depends on strong relationships between finance and technology, and on combining deep financial expertise with equally capable technical talent.

By collaborating with architects and technology leaders, his team explores solutions that support a more modern and efficient finance function.

Ali also describes how AI adoption begins with building awareness.

He encourages his team to experiment with tools like ChatGPT in their personal lives to spark curiosity and develop an innovative mindset.

As usage grows, the team increasingly identifies new ways to apply AI, from advanced analytics to support forecasting, to automating tasks such as accounts payable, reconciliations and narrative preparation.

Ali highlights that AI enhances both retrospective analysis and forward-looking forecasting, but he stresses the need for a “human in the loop”, particularly in regulated sectors like banking where accuracy, data governance and judgement remain critical.

Developing digital skills across the finance function is critical. Ali looks for people who bring curiosity, hunger to learn and the ability to think beyond traditional processes.

Digital tools, including AI, act as enablers, but only if teams know how to use them effectively.

Ali sees strong appetite within his team to adopt new technologies and shift towards higher-value work, reinforcing that the focus is on augmentation rather than replacement.

He notes that value creation is the ultimate measure of success, and that teams must continuously ask how they can bring greater value to the organisation.

Key takeaways:

  • Strong tech–finance partnership drives transformation: Modern finance success relies on close collaboration with technology teams, combining financial expertise with strong technical capability.
  • AI adoption starts with awareness and experimentation: By encouraging his team to use tools like ChatGPT personally, Ali builds curiosity and an innovative mindset that leads to practical applications in forecasting, automation and analytics.
  • Digital skills and mindset matter more than tools: AI and digital technologies only deliver value when teams are curious, adaptable and focused on higher-value work—reinforcing that AI is about augmenting roles, not replacing them.
Contributors
Ali Mehfooz Group Financial Controller at Bendigo and Adelaide Bank
With over two decades of experience in financial services across banking and investment management, I’ve led complex finance functions through periods of... More

With over two decades of experience in financial services across banking and investment management, I’ve led complex finance functions through periods of transformation, growth, and regulatory change. My career has spanned senior roles at Bendigo and Adelaide Bank and AMP Capital, where I’ve worked closely with boards, regulators, and global stakeholders to deliver on financial strategy, operational resilience, and risk governance. I’ve also overseen large, geographically dispersed teams, bringing together diverse capabilities across regulatory reporting, securitisation, shared services, and M&A finance integration.

What drives me is building strong, values-led teams and shaping finance functions that are forward-looking, digitally enabled, and deeply aligned with business strategy. I’m drawn to challenges where finance can play a catalytic role—whether through modernising systems, strengthening controls, or stewarding organisations through change. My approach is collaborative, measured, and focused on long-term impact.

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Byron Connolly Head of Programs & Value Engagement at ADAPT
Byron Connolly is a highly experienced technology and business journalist, editor, corporate writer, and event producer, and ADAPT’s Head of Programs and... More

Byron Connolly is a highly experienced technology and business journalist, editor, corporate writer, and event producer, and ADAPT’s Head of Programs and Value Engagement.

Prior to joining Adapt, he was the editor-in-chief at CIO Australia and associate editor at CSO Australia. He also created and led the well-known CIO50 awards program in Australia and The CIO Show podcast.

As the Head of Programs, Byron creates valuable insights for ADAPT’s community of senior technology and business professionals, helping them reach their organisational and professional goals. With over 25 years of experience, he has a passion for uncovering stories about the careers and personal philosophies of Australia’s top technology and digital executives.

When he is not working, Byron enjoys hot yoga, swimming, running, and spending time with his family.

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finance transformation skills leadership