From Ledgers To Leadership: How AI Is Redefining Accounting

The accounting profession is no longer just about balance sheets and compliance. Thanks to AI and automation, it’s undergoing a sweeping transformation—one that’s recasting accountants as strategic advisors and tech-savvy business partners.

Jason Marx, CEO of Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting, has a front-row seat to this evolution. From predictive analytics to generative AI, he’s helping lead an industry shift that’s redefining what it means to be a modern accountant.

In the following conversation, Marx shares his vision for the future of accounting, the role of emerging technologies, and why the most powerful innovations begin with listening to the customer.

What drew you to a career in finance, and then later, tax and accounting?

There’s a very practical answer to this: I studied economics, and finance offered the most direct path from theory to action. But what truly drew me in was seeing the real-world impact of financial decisions.

My first role at Household International gave me a front-row seat to this —helping families remodel homes, buy cars, and fund college dreams. That experience shaped my perspective on finance, and its ability to empower people in meaningful ways.

As I advanced through roles in financial services, lending and insurance, I refined my leadership style, learned how to build high-performing teams, and saw firsthand the power of customer-centric solutions.

When the opportunity arose to join Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting, I saw an exciting challenge: to help accountants navigate a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape and equip them with the technology and solutions to shape the future of financial decision-making.

How has the accountant profession evolved over the years?

The accounting profession is undergoing a profound transformation. While accountants have always been experts in financial reporting and risk management, advancements in AI and automation have fundamentally reshaped their workflows. Routine, manual processes have been streamlined, allowing accountants to take on more strategic, high-value advisory roles.

Today, accountants aren’t just balancing the books—they’re trusted business partners, helping clients navigate complex financial landscapes, identify opportunities and drive growth. With advanced technologies, they now have real-time access to integrated tax research and advanced analytics, enabling them to guide their clients in making smarter, more proactive business decisions.

And this transformation is only accelerating. The next wave of AI-driven innovation—including generative AI—is accelerating this shift by automating complex data processing, delivering hyper-personalized client insights, and further expanding accountants’ advisory capabilities. The role of the accountant is evolving, strengthening and becoming more impactful than ever.

How do you believe you are influencing the field of tax and accounting?

I believe the best way to lead is by listening. While I have the privilege of leading a talented team in developing cutting-edge software and workflow solutions, our mission is shaped by the voices of our customers.

Accountants don’t need more tools—they need solutions that simplify complexity, automate compliance, and provide real insights. That’s why our innovation strategy is centered on firm intelligence—delivering AI-powered solutions that anticipate their needs and enhance their advisory capabilities.

We’re not innovating for the sake of technology. Our focus is on solving real challenges, from regulatory complexity to workflow inefficiencies. By staying attuned to our customers, we continue to develop solutions that drive accuracy, efficiency and profitability—so accountants can focus on what matters most.

You are a member of the Wall Street Journal CEO Council. What are some key issues that the council is currently addressing?

AI continues to be a major focus of our discussions. At a recent CEO Council Summit in Washington, D.C., there was broad recognition that AI is more than just a business priority—it’s an area that demands thoughtful leadership and collaboration.

Beyond its potential for innovation, we explored its role in security, infrastructure and intellectual property protection. The conversation underscored the importance of smart investments and policies to ensure the U.S. remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Engaging with other global leaders in these discussions has been invaluable. Hearing different perspectives—across industries and geographies—helps us all navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute.