Mr. Man a bin Mohammed AlKham san , CEO of T he Financial Academy (TFA) , participated in a panel discussion at “ A Step Ahead (ASA) Career Forum 2026 ” in Riyadh , where he reviewed the rapid transformations taking place in the financial sector amid digital evolution and artificial intelligence advancements , and the resulting fundamental changes in jobs and career paths.

AlKhamsan explained that the financial sector is no longer traditional, as it has become increasingly reliant on technology and innovation . “This requires a reconsideration of professional qualification concepts and a focus shift from certifications to practical skills and continuous development. Roughly 70 percent of jobs in the financial sector will be affected over the next five years ,” he noted.

“So, it is critically important to improve digital and behavioral skills and promote national talent a dapt ability to rapid changes, ” said AlKhamsan , adding that closing the skill gap is a priority for the sector and demands integrated efforts among all relevant stakeholders.

The CEO revealed that TFA is develop ing an integrated capacity-building system based on predicting future skills and implementing high-quality programs and initiatives that align training outcomes with labor market needs , which eventually enhances career readiness of national talent .

“I nvest ing in human capital is fundamental for achieving sustainability and competitiveness in the financial sector, ” AlKhamsan stressed, calling for supporting t his direction through the adoption of skill-based professional development models.

Finally, he affirmed that The Financial Academy will continue to assume its role in empowering national talent and contributing to shaping the future of the financial sector in line with rapid transformations.