AI fluency is no longer a differentiator — it’s the new baseline
In 2025, being “AI-ready” has become an expectation for professionals across financial services. It’s no longer about learning for curiosity. It’s about demonstrating real fluency — in front of hiring managers, colleagues, and regulators.
AI Fluency Is Now Expected
66% of hiring managers globally would not hire a candidate without AI skills. And these aren’t just roles in technology.
Finance professionals in strategy, risk, operations, and client-facing roles are now expected to work with AI confidently — and responsibly.
“AI is changing how we hire. What we look for now is fluency — not just familiarity.”
The Career Impact Is Measurable
According to PwC’s Global AI Jobs Barometer (2025), the impact of AI skills on careers is already clear:
- 56% average wage premium for AI-skilled roles
- Job postings requiring AI are growing at 7.5% annually
- Productivity is 3× higher in AI-exposed sectors like finance
This is not a future trend. It’s a shift that’s already in motion.
The Policy Shift: From Optional to Obligatory
Around the world, AI literacy is being written into law and national policy.
- The EU AI Act now requires staff to be trained if they work with AI systems
- The UAE has made AI education mandatory in public schools
- The US Executive Order prioritises AI education nationally
What was once a “nice to have” is now a regulatory expectation — especially in high-stakes industries like finance.
The Gap Between AI Hype and Real Readiness
Many professionals still rely on general courses, surface-level tutorials, or one-off AI tools. But employers are asking a different question:
Can you apply AI responsibly and effectively in your role?
That’s the difference between being curious — and being credible.
The Executive AI Certificate: A Structured Way to Get Ahead
That’s why CFTE created the Executive AI Certificate – Level 1. It’s a structured, practical way to demonstrate you’re ahead of the curve — without needing a technical background.
You’ll:
- Start with a personal AIQ Diagnostic
- Learn to apply AI in risk, strategy, compliance, and client advisory roles
- Build an AI-enhanced portfolio (tools, reports, prompt playbooks)
- Earn a certificate recognised by industry leaders, central banks, and regulators
Proving you're AI-ready is no longer optional. It's how you stay relevant.
If you work in financial services, the time to act is now.
Start your journey with the Executive AI Certificate
