Webinar

Future CFO — Episode 4

12PM CT
21 Jan, 2026
Online

Agenda

How should CFOs think about AI and automation as part of the long-term evolution of the finance function while maintaining control, trust, and strategic focus?

In this live episode of The Future CFO series, we explore how finance leaders are approaching AI adoption today and what it means for the future role of finance. Based on insights from a Finance Labs survey of 100 U.S. CFOs conducted in 2025, the discussion highlights where AI is already creating value, how finance teams are adapting, and what leaders should prioritize as transformation accelerates.

Hear experienced finance leaders share their perspectives on how AI is reshaping core finance processes, how team structures and skill sets are evolving, and why change management, clean data, and human oversight remain essential as automation becomes more deeply embedded in finance operations.

Panel:

Rita Maria Reed, Investor at Black Venture Institute
Shad Bien, CFO at DRUID AI

Moderator:

Frida Ahrenby, CMO at Rillion

Get to know our speakers

Rita Maria Reed

Investor at Black Venture Institute

Rita is a global finance executive and leadership speaker with 20+ years of experience across financial services and technology. A former CFO and Microsoft finance leader, she helps organizations lead with clarity, strong judgment, and people-first decision making in times of change.

Shad Bien

CFO at Druid AI

Shad is a tech-forward finance leader and U.S. Army veteran who partners with executive teams to scale global SaaS businesses. He brings deep experience leading ERP transformations, Big 4 audits, IPO readiness, and M&A integrations, with a strong focus on disciplined execution and effective controls.