Sage unveiled its High-Performance Finance Software initiative on the first day of the Sage Future conference in Atlanta, GA. The company’s CEO, Steve Hare, highlighted the challenges faced by modern CFOs, including constant change, an evolving role, and the need for high performance. As finance leaders, the expectation on you to navigate change is immense,” Hare said.
“You want to spend 80% of your time looking forward. The windshield should always be bigger than the rearview mirror.”
Sage’s strategy focuses on three core components: AI-powered solutions, executive upskilling, and peer collaboration. The introduction of Sage Copilot, an embedded generative AI assistant trained in accounting, is designed to enhance decision-making speed and accuracy.
Through a partnership with GrowCFO, Sage has launched the “High-Performance Academy,” a CPE-accredited training program that aims to develop the strategic tools and competencies needed by finance leaders in high-growth environments. The initiative also emphasizes creating a network where finance leaders can exchange insights and best practices. Mark Hickman, Managing Director North America at Sage, stated, “Today’s CFOs aren’t just financial managers; they’re catalysts of growth for businesses.” He emphasized the importance of providing advanced technology, executive-level training, and a dynamic peer network to empower CFOs to lead boldly from the front.
Kathleen Ruiz, CFO at LA Opera House, described the practical impact of such integrated solutions: “Sage has transformed the way the finance department functions.
Sage’s AI-powered finance solutions unveiled
The time saved on routine tasks allows us to focus on analyzing data and drawing actionable insights.
This is what high performance looks like to me.”
While Sage’s announcements pertain specifically to its offerings, the underlying trends have broad relevance for the ERP market. Modern finance leaders now require ERP platforms that offer more than just record-keeping; they need tools that enable strategic decision-making. Research shows that while 82% of CFOs are directly responsible for driving profitable growth and 77% are involved in shaping enterprise strategy, less than one-third currently lead their organization’s digital transformation efforts.
Advanced technology must be complemented by comprehensive training, effective change management, and a focus on developing the strategic skills of finance users. ERP implementations should extend beyond mere automation to foster a high-performance finance culture. Data indicates that 72% of CFOs prioritize career progression over remuneration, and 85% believe they need improved tools to meet escalating expectations.
This suggests ERP systems must shift from automating routine financial tasks to augmenting the strategic capabilities of finance leaders. Embedded Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are becoming standard in ERP platforms. ERP professionals in both mid-size and large enterprises must understand how AI functionalities can deliver concrete benefits in areas such as financial forecasting, risk management, and strategic planning.
Sage’s High-Performance Finance Software mission sets a new benchmark for ERP solutions, emphasizing the need for advanced technology, executive training, and a collaborative network for finance leaders to thrive in their expanded roles.
Senior Software Engineer with a passion for building practical, user-centric applications. He specializes in full-stack development with a strong focus on crafting elegant, performant interfaces and scalable backend solutions. With experience leading teams and delivering robust, end-to-end products, he thrives on solving complex problems through clean and efficient code.
