Juggling with accounts to succeed in finance in the age of AI
The financial landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the rise of artificial intelligence and the increasing complexity of global markets. As AI reshapes traditional roles, one skill remains irreplaceable - the ability to understand and interpret financial accounts. At HEC Paris, the Accounts for Finance & Strategy Summer Program offers students a unique opportunity to master this essential skill through an innovative and engaging teaching approach. With the expert guidance of Professor Olivier Levyne, a highly experienced investment banker, this two-week intensive program ensures that participants are not only equipped with technical expertise but also develop the analytical skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
The new world of finance
AI is revolutionizing the finance sector in more profound ways than previous technological advances ever did. From generating company profiles to drafting legal documentation, AI tools like ChatGPT can now replicate many of the traditional tasks of junior analysts.
However, while AI is an excellent tool for processing publicly accessible data and generating structured outputs, it still lacks the human intuition and foresight necessary for financial forecasting and strategic decision-making. The banking sector still requires professionals who can interpret financial statements, build accurate business models, and persuade CEOs with well-crafted arguments. The Accounts for Finance & Strategy Summer Program at HEC Paris has been specifically designed to prepare students to meet these new challenges head-on.
The fundamental language of finance
In the financial sector, accounting is the fundamental language of business. Without a solid grasp of financial statements, professionals risk making misinformed decisions that could cost millions. As Iokanaan, a Master’s student at HEC Paris, puts it: "When you study finance, accounting really is the basic language. And if you're not fluent, you will inevitably come across issues later on."
Beyond finance, accounting knowledge is critical across a wide range of industries, including consulting and corporate strategy. Antoine, another Master’s student, recalls his internship interview: "Even though it was for strategy consulting, I was tested on my accounting knowledge. It shows that accounting is not just for finance - it’s useful in many fields."
A unique approach to teaching accounting at HEC Paris
Traditional accounting courses often focus on journal entries, account numbers, and the confusing terminology of debits and credits. This can make accounting feel both inaccessible and counterintuitive to students. HEC Paris takes a radically different approach.
At HEC Paris, students dive straight into balance sheets and income statements, removing unnecessary complexities and making accounting concepts instantly accessible. Instead of using the confusing terms of "debit" and "credit," students work with left and right columns, thereby simplifying the learning process. As Antoine notes, "I was expecting something boring, but it was not. The course was crystal clear. It’s step by step, and we understand everything."
The Accounts for Finance & Strategy Summer Program: finance in action
The HEC Paris Accounts for Finance & Strategy Summer Program is more than just an academic course - it’s an immersive experience designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice. The program is aimed at both beginner level business or economics students, as well as students who already have experience in the field and are seeking to refresh their skills. Participants engage in real-world financial modeling (including building Excel models from scratch), in-depth financial analysis, and hands-on case studies.
To bring the impact of corporate restructuring to life, the program focuses on four recent high-profile cases in different industries. Casino - the French food retailer, Atos - a leading IT services provider, Alstom – a global leader in the transportation industry and Boeing – the world-famous aviation company. This case-study approach ensures that students apply what they have learned to tangible business scenarios, preparing them for real-world challenges in finance and beyond.
Shaping future leaders in the finance sector
As AI continues to reshape the finance industry, accounting remains an indispensable tool for understanding businesses, making strategic decisions, and excelling in high-stakes financial environments.
The HEC Paris Accounts for Finance & Strategy Summer Program provides students with a competitive edge by offering an innovative, practical approach to financial education. With world-class instruction and exposure to real-world case studies, participants leave the program not only with technical expertise but also with the confidence to navigate the complexities of modern finance.
Find out more about the Accounts for Finance & Strategy Summer Program