How AI is Being Used by FP&A professionals & Implemented by Software Vendors with Vena CTO Hugh Cumming

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, sits down with Hugh Cumming, the CTO of Vena Solutions. They explore how AI and technology are transforming financial planning and analysis (FP&A) by discussing real-world AI implementations. With over 20 years of experience in fintech and digital transformation, Hugh shares his perspectives on AI-driven efficiency, the evolving role of FP&A professionals, and the future of Excel in financial modeling.

Hugh Cumming is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Vena Solutions, a leading FP&A platform for Excel users. Hugh has led global teams in engineering, UX, cloud computing, and AI-driven innovation at companies like Finastra, SecureKey Technologies, ADP Canada, and Manulife. Hugh talks about his passion for using technology to drive efficiency and smarter decision-making, and helping to overcome change resistance in finance teams

Expect to Learn:

• How AI is reshaping FP&A workflows and automating financial reporting.
• The role of AI-powered copilots in driving business efficiencies.
• Why change resistance in FP&A is common and how to overcome it.
• The future of Excel, Python, and automation in financial modeling.
• Practical advice for FP&A professionals to prepare for AI-driven changes.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “One of the biggest barriers to AI adoption in FP&A is simply finding the time to implement it.”
• “AI-driven tools should feel like an extension of your team, not an external system you have to fight against.”
• “When you start using AI for small tasks, you quickly realize how much time you’ve been wasting on manual work.”

Hugh Cumming provided incredible knowledge about how AI-powered tools like Vena Copilot are helping finance teams become more efficient, strategic, and data-driven. Excel isn’t going anywhere, but it’s getting smarter. AI isn’t replacing people, but it’s making their work more valuable. As Hugh emphasized, those who adapt and leverage these innovations will thrive in the evolving financial landscape. 

The AFP FP&A Forum:

The Association for Financial Professionals FP&A Forum, March 17–19 in Austin, is the must-attend event for finance professionals seeking sales-free, expert-led insights on AI, process efficiency and strategic planning. With 18+ actionable sessions and a community of peers, this forum is all about real learning, no fluff—join us and take your finance game to the next level.

Explore the agenda: https://bit.ly/40W1eCh

Use the code FPAGuy2025 for $200 off: https://bit.ly/40Cts3B

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Hugh:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hughwcumming/

Company - https://www.venasolutions.com/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Planning in BI Showcase:

Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms. Now, with business intelligence tools you can integrate planning directly into your BI system. Join Paul on March 20th for the Planning in BI Showcase, where industry leaders will demonstrate how top BI tools are reshaping strategic planning. See firsthand how modern FP&A solutions can drive real value across your enterprise. Don’t miss out!

Register today for free at https://bit.ly/4aLzEe0

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:44] - Meet Hugh Cumming

[02:53] - What Does Great FP&A Look Like?

[06:27] - Hugh’s Early Start with Programming 

[09:38] - The Rise of AI in FP&A

[14:44] - Vena’s Vision for AI in FP&A

[19:28] - Managing AI Hallucinations & Building Trust

[26:23] - Real AI Use Cases in FP&A

[29:13] - Advice for FP&A Professionals on AI Adoption

[32:42] - The Future of Excel & AI

[35:18] - Rapid-Fire Questions

[42:54] - Closing Thoughts & Where to Connect