The Prototype Mindset

Inna Kogan shares her journey from Big Four audit in Moscow to driving finance transformation at Amazon, revealing how she built BI tools that revolutionized complex M&A modeling and now experiments with AI for contract reviews and business insights. She discusses the cultural shifts between Russian and British finance practices, the importance of in-person networking for career growth, and why starting small with everyday problems is the key to scaling innovation in large organizations. Inna also explores how accountants can leverage AI to move beyond compliance work and provide deeper business intelligence across entire organizations.

• (00:00) - Welcome to Accounting Intelligence
• (03:05) - Inna's Career Journey
• (04:56) - Transition to Amazon and Embracing Automation
• (09:30) - The Importance of Networking and In-Person Interactions
• (18:20) - Cultural Differences in Finance
• (21:53) - Building a BI Modeling Tool
• (24:53) - Leveraging Internal Tools for Innovation
• (25:42) - Transitioning from BI to AI
• (26:11) - Early Experiences with AI in Accounting
• (27:05) - AI's Rapid Development and Adoption
• (29:22) - Challenges and Successes in AI Implementation
• (36:55) - Experimenting with AI in Daily Work
• (38:53) - Encouraging Innovation and Experimentation
• (41:10) - Sharing Knowledge and Experiences
• (44:04) - Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Connect with Isaac Heller
https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaacheller

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